A Lesson in Humility...

Why are you doing what you do? Are you seeking to get that pat on the back or compliment from those around you? Or are you seeking to please and delight your Heavenly Father?

I recently discovered that my answer to this question wasn’t what I had hoped it would be. I found myself in a position of wanting approval, a pat on the back and some recognition from someone I had never met.

What I thought was going to be a “This is great! You all should take some notes and try to do some of this yourself.” turned into a bit of a slap in the face. I was hurt and sad. I had tried to please this person and only got turned into an example of something you shouldn’t do. And you know what? I KNEW BETTER! I knew that the work wasn’t a 100% effort and I went ahead and pushed through anyway making excuses for something that I KNEW wasn’t my best.

Y’all, I’d love to say that I took that and learned the lessons and blew if off. But, that’s just not what happened. I kept stewing and dwelling over every word spoken. I kept pouring salt on the wound and wanting to blame anyone but me.

I failed to see the truth. That although my work may have been “good” there was room for some improvement. If I ever think that I’ve reached perfection I’ve got a whole other issue coming… The Bible warns us against getting a little too big for our britches.

“Pride goes before destruction,
And a haughty spirit before a fall.”
~Proverbs 16:18

I have to say that I got a little mixed up. Not only did I let this person’s words affect me WAY too much I also let my circumstances get in the way of my relationship with God. I was so busy stewing and trying to “fix” everything that I put God on the back burner.

In the middle of all of this I forgot the reason WHY I’m doing what I do. I’m not doing this to get my name in the spotlight. God already knows my name (Isaiah 43:1). This isn’t to store up useless treasures here on this earth (Matthew 6:19-21).

My hope is that ultimately at the end of my life I will hear my Savior say “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23). I hope to make the most of the gifts that He has given me for HIS GLORY–Doing all things so that OTHERS WILL PRIASE HIS NAME (Colossians 3:23, Matthew 5:16).

Although I may get approval from man time to time that should NEVER be my sole goal in life. I should seek to grow closer to God and do His will in all things. In the scheme of things it really doesn’t matter what other people think.

Because in all honesty, they’re not gonna like me just because I serve God, and that’s okay. Because I have the support and love of my Heavenly Father and some really great family and friends. 😉

I can’t let someone’s personal opinion determine my course or happiness in life. I need to listen and evaluate what of this is true and applicable to me and let the rest go. Seeking and believing that God will guide me forward.

I want to encourage you to take a look at your WHY. Really be honest with yourself about why you’re doing this or that. What your expectations are and what you truly hope to gain. I encourage you to remember that our goal as Christians is to advance the name of Jesus; not our own names or pocket books.