Enjoy the Day! - Pt 4

So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. (2 Corinthians 5:6-10 ESV).

Another killer of our joy is people pleasing; it is an exercise in futility. Our culture has produced a pronounced tendency to approval addiction. Many find themselves constantly battling with the need for approval and the wrong thinking that more good deeds equal more love. But at the cross, Jesus demonstrated the price he paid because he loved us. We did not need to do anything for this love. A vital truth to combat this fear is: Not everyone will love me, but the One who matters will never stop loving me. God’s love for us does not ebb and flow; it does not waver; it does not increase or decrease; it is consistent. We also don’t need to lose our assurance as children of God every time we sin or forget these truths. His love for us is made complete in Christ, so there’s no need to fear rejection. Once we are secure in our relationship with God, and understand the implications of that relationship, we will seek to know how we can please him. Jesus explained to his disciples that loving God was demonstrated by obeying God (cf. John 14:21). As we increase our desire to obey God, the desire to please others fades, and pleasing God becomes more important (v. 9). We need to redefine success: It is whatever brings glory to God. Instead of looking to what we accomplish, how much money we make, who we impressed with our accolades, we need to evaluate the fruit we are bearing for the Lord and the relationship we have with Jesus Christ. We need to prioritize faithfulness. We were designed to crave love from the One who is love. Not everyone will love me. Those who do love me will never love me the way I crave to be loved because I was created to be complete in Christ alone. We will not always please people. Our days are spent to please God, bring him joy, and reflect the One who created us for his ultimate glory! When we turn our thoughts and actions from pleasing others to pleasing Christ, only then will we find contentment, peace, and freedom. Turn your frustration to joy by looking to Jesus. He is pleased with you and has already proven it forever!