I spent a lot of my younger years trying to please people. I was very insecure in who I was, the way I looked and how I dressed. It was a hard time and I think most of us go through this, to a certain extent, when we are in our teens and early twenties. Hopefully, it’s something we outgrow.
Yet, for some it continues into mature adulthood. Trying to please the boss we sacrifice our own integrity or our families. Wanting to be accepted in the workplace and in our social circle we give in to activities that go against our internal convictions.
Walking free of others’ opinions is a hard thing to do whether we’re 5, 15, or 55. But there is an answer, a solid solution.
“God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. 6 So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. 7 He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.” Ephesians 1:5-7 NLT
Did you see when God decided to adopt us? It was in advance of our coming to Him. It was in advance of Jesus coming to this earth. The Father’s love and desire to see us restored to relationship with Him was the driving force to the plan of salvation.
We are loved and accepted just the way we are! Before we could do anything note-worthy or good, He chose to love us by His grace.
Start the day right – focus on the Father and His lovingkindness. When we know how much God loves us even our worst day is better. What does it matter what others think about us, say about us or do to us, when the Almighty God loves us and holds us in the palm of his hand?
“You are my God. I worship you. In my heart, I long for you, as I would long for a stream in a scorching desert. 2 I have seen your power and your glory in the place of worship. 3 Your love means more than life to me, and I praise you. 4 As long as I live, I will pray to you. 5 I will sing joyful praises and be filled with excitement like a guest at a banquet. 6 I think about you, God, before I go to sleep, and my thoughts turn to you during the night. 7 You have helped me, and I sing happy songs in the shadow of your wings. 8 I stay close to you, and your powerful arm supports me.” Psalms 63:1-8 CEV
We are loved and accepted. Our heavenly Father provides us with all the support we need!