Mismatched

I find it so frustrating when I am short on time in the morning and I can’t find the mate to my sock. After running my fingers quickly through my sock drawer, I ultimately end up tossing my socks, one by one, onto the bed in search of the companion. My efforts to speed up the hunt leave me with a mess, an empty drawer, and no solution to my dilemma. Now, I must weigh all my alternatives. With the clock ticking faster, I must consider the best choice, requiring the least amount of time. Surely, changing my entire outfit is not an option at this point.

Quickly, I search out a color closest to the un-matched sock in hopes I can improvise without anyone noticing. Slipping my toes into the stocking I immediately observe the fabric’s pattern is noticeably different than the matchless sock I have on my other foot. Even though it is similar in color, it doesn’t look or feel right. I end up settling for less, trusting that nobody will detect my oddity.

This is not unlike friendships. We all desire to possess a close confidant who is a carbon copy of us and will hang in there through thick and thin. This individual connects with us and compliments us as a person. Just like a matched pair of socks, that are the same color and fabric texture, so is the friend who resembles us. There is a bond we feel to this person since their principles and values mimic ours. They go together! The comfortable fit gives us assurance that we have nothing to hide and can be our self. Our relationship feels right and affirms the security we long for in companionship.

Sometimes, however, in an attempt to fit in with those around us, we end up like the un-matched sock. We cave in to the significant morals instilled within us. At first, we are uncomfortable with the choices we make, but over time justify them by acknowledging that they are no different than those our friends are making.  Without a doubt, this gives credence to our unfitting actions.

I remember one of my first poor choices after moving to a new middle school. As the new girl in town, I found myself in the midst of acceptance among a popular group of girls. This removed my fear of not fitting in and made me feel good about myself. Now, sadly, looking back, I remember not sticking to my godly convictions in order to match my peers.

The first beer I was given, by my new friends, I poured out little by little while walking to a party. Our group took a short cut across a field and I intentionally lagged behind a bit so I could slowly dribble out my brew without anyone noticing. I knew in my heart that my underage drinking was wrong, but my head wouldn’t listen because I desperately wanted to fit in. Even though at first I found the taste disgusting, it was the thing to do so I compromised my beliefs. Just like settling for an un-matched sock, I chose to hang out with my new incompatible friends.    

Over time, I became numb and felt at ease with my inappropriate actions. This led me to make further concessions for the flesh. I found myself hiding secrets from my parents and other adults I looked up to. The still small voice was clearly telling me clearly I was doing something wrong as we are exhorted in Ephesians 5:11 “And do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead expose them.” Instead, I let the desire of fitting in control my choices. I compromised by telling myself that I was in control of the situation and bringing no harm to others. Indeed, I was harming myself by compromising my conviction.  My unsuitable behavior was a mask I only wore around those I wanted to connect with. At home and at church, I was a sweet, compliant girl.

Sadly though, I was indeed hurting someone else.  I had accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior when I was in kindergarten.  He was dwelling inside my heart, but I paid no attention to His desires for me.  I let the world creep in while placing Him on hold.  Like my mismatched sock, I settled for less.

Take a stand for your beliefs and convictions. Remember, "If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you" John 15:19 (NASB).

Blessings from above,
Anita