The question I have on my heart this morning, who am I working to please? We must know that our lives are not given to us by accident. Today we log into social media and we post something in hopes of receiving a like. We polish our profiles, we look busy or like we have the best of times and sometimes even the worst but we get those likes. Leaving us with the idea that maybe just maybe, they like me
Everyone has the inherent desire to feel safe and secure, and human behavior revolves around the need to garner that sense of physical and emotional security. “On a deep emotional level, feeling approved of makes us feel secure with yourself as a person. There is a huge degree of inner peace and security connected to feeling good about who we are.”. When we aren’t met with approval, we no longer feel safe and protected. “When we meet ridicule or rejection, it can undermine our view of ourselves, “If we internalize this kind of negative feedback, we can begin to doubt our personal worth. This threatens our sense of security and disrupts our inner harmony.” while leading to potential compulsive behaviors.
God has created each and everyone of us to fulfill His purpose for our lives but only we can choose to do so. Many of us want to hear on that Great Day, well done thy good and faithful servant. However, the question to ask is, are we in pursuit of fulfilling His purpose for our lives, so that we can hear those wonderful words? We must know that we are not working for approval from man, but we are working for approval and to be pleasing unto God. When Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, as he came up out of the water the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove and the Father spoke from heaven and said, this is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased. The question that I ask myself: Can God say the same about me?
I will be the first to tell you that I have had to deal with life’s demands and have, as well, fallen short. Let me tell you don’t wallow in the guilt or the shame of your past. Human nature (Flesh) leads us at times to the point of paralyzing shame, but don’t stay there keep pressing until you get to a stage of confession.
What good comes from confession?
Confession brings both humility and spiritual growth which is essential for your God-given emotional well being.
Understand this, you are forgiven and then seek comfort and support. Remember we are joint heirs with Jesus Christ, we have been washed and cleansed in the blood of Jesus. We’ve been given every opportunity to walk pleasing in the sight of God. I don’t know about you but I am going to make a declaration today, to work for His approval.
Pastor Desmond