Becoming Who God Created You To Be - Romans 8:29

Introduction
It is not possible to make a genuine progress if we are doing things the same way we have been doing them before. If this year must be better than the previous years we must first and foremost discover ourselves. That we help us to do things differently.

Today, we are going to embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring how we can understand ourselves and our relationships better using the Johari Window model, with the story of Joseph from the Bible as our guide. The Johari Window, created by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham, is a powerful tool for self-awareness and personal growth. It comprises four quadrants: the Open Area, the Hidden Area, the Blind Area, and the Unknown Area. Let's delve into how each of these areas can be related to the life of Joseph, son of Jacob.

What is Self discovery?
Self-discovery is the process of understanding your true self: your values, your needs and wants, even what food you like and dislike. You might have naturally learned some of these things about yourself over time. Yet, for a lot of people, we have a way of losing touch with our values and hiding our own motivations and preferences, even from ourselves. Going deeper into self-discovery can transform your life. 

WITHOUT SELF DISCOVERY YOU CANNOT BE PERSON YOU ARE CREATED TO BE

**1. The Open Area/The Known Self (Known to Self and Others):**
The Open Area represents the aspects of our personality that we and others are aware of. These are our strengths, weaknesses, and traits that are visible to everyone. In recognizing our Known Self, we acknowledge God's intentional design and purpose for our lives. We are fearfully and wonderfully made, and we should use our known strengths to glorify Him.

- **Biblical Reference:** Genesis 37:3-4
  - "Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate robe for him. When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him."
  - **Application:** Joseph's favoritism and his colorful coat were known to both himself and his brothers. This favoritism caused jealousy and hatred among his brothers.

*Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV)*: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

**2. The Hidden Area (Known to Self, Unknown to Others):**
The Hidden Area consists of things we know about ourselves but choose to keep hidden from others. The Hidden Self includes the facets of our identity that we are aware of but choose to keep concealed from others. These might be our fears, insecurities, or unconfessed sins.

Bringing our hidden self into the light requires vulnerability and honesty. When we confess our sins and struggles to God, He is faithful to cleanse us and transform our lives. Transparency and accountability within the body of Christ can lead to healing and growth.

Scripture Reference:

*1 John 1:9 (NIV)*: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

- **Biblical Reference:** Genesis 37:5-8
  - "Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. He said to them, 'Listen to this dream I had: We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.' His brothers said to him, 'Do you intend to reign over us? Will you actually rule us?' And they hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said."
  - **Application:** Joseph initially kept his dreams to himself, but when he shared them, it caused further friction with his brothers. This teaches us the importance of discernment in sharing our hidden thoughts and dreams.

**3. The Blind Area/ Blind Self (Unknown to Self, Known to Others):**
The Blind Area contains aspects of ourselves that we are unaware of, but others can see. The Blind Self consists of the parts of our personality and behavior that are apparent to others but hidden from us. These can be both positive traits and areas needing improvement.

The Blind Self consists of the parts of our personality and behavior that are apparent to others but hidden from us. These can be both positive traits and areas needing improvement.

Scripture Reference:

*Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)*: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

We should invite God to search our hearts and reveal our blind spots. Constructive feedback from trusted friends and family can also illuminate areas needing refinement. This process of self-awareness and correction aligns us more closely with God's will.

Scripture Reference:

*Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)*: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

- **Biblical Reference:** Genesis 37:10-11
  - "When he told his father as well as his brothers, his father rebuked him and said, 'What is this dream you had? Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you?' His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind."

  - **Application:** Joseph was unaware of how his dreams and his father's favoritism were perceived by his brothers and even by his father. Others saw the jealousy and resentment growing in his brothers.

**4. The Unknown Area (Unknown to Self and Others):**
The Unknown Area represents the parts of ourselves that are hidden from both us and others. These can be untapped potential or undiscovered talents. The Unknown Self comprises the parts of us that neither we nor others are aware of. These are latent potential, talents, and callings waiting to be unveiled.

*Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)*: “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”

God invites us to seek Him and discover the mysteries and hidden aspects of our lives. Through prayer and a relationship with Him, we can uncover our unknown self and step into the fullness of our God-given potential.

- **Biblical Reference:** Genesis 41:15-16
  - "Pharaoh said to Joseph, 'I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.' 'I cannot do it,' Joseph replied to Pharaoh, 'but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.'"
  - **Application:** Joseph's ability to interpret dreams was unknown to him and others until God revealed it. Through adversity and faith, Joseph discovered his God-given talent which ultimately led to his rise to power in Egypt.

**Conclusion:**
The journey of self-discovery involves understanding the Open, Hidden, Blind, and Unknown areas of our lives. By using the Johari Window model and reflecting on the life of Joseph, we can gain insights into our strengths, weaknesses, and undiscovered potential. Let us seek God's guidance in our self-discovery journey, trusting that He will reveal our purpose and talents in His perfect timing.

**Call to Action:**
As we go forth, let us commit to being more open with ourselves and others, seeking feedback, and embracing the journey of self-discovery. May we, like Joseph, trust in God's plan and allow Him to guide us in realizing our full potential. Amen.