Scripture, in the power of the Holy Spirit, has taught me much in my life. Like today, when I read the words of Jesus speaking, I can pick out the negatives in my life, my struggles and sometimes accomplishments through God’s grace. These words from the Gospel of Matthew 23:1-12 bring to mind a great character flaw in me. Jesus says in talking about the Scribes and Pharisees … “All their works are performed to be seen.”
I have learned through life as a people pleaser, how to manipulate my way around. Want an A in class, be the teacher’s pet. Always know where the authority and people of influence are and act, say the right words, help someone and make others think you are God’s gift to the world. When they are not around, screw you. Sounds harsher than I want it to be because you would have liked me. I would tell you exactly what you wanted to hear and I know where the lights, eyes and cameras are.
In sports, I was pretty good so I would just beat up on you and then shook your hand after you lost. I did not brag but found ways to stay in the limelight so you would tell others how great I am. If I ever lost, it was that injury or sickness but I gutted it out so people would be talking about how great my losing effort was.
God has humbled me greatly, especially in my own mind. I seek to see good in everyone and no longer want the spotlight. Even in music where I would always seek to leave people in awe with my talent, it is now for the Glory of God. Every compliment or thank you for me is Glory to God. I mean that sincerely. I still have to fight myself in many ways from going back down the road of ego and not follow the examples of the Scribes and Pharisees, but with God’s grace, mercy and love, I am confident of winning that battle. The Gospel ends today with … “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” I will strive for the latter. Amen.
Seeking To Reflect Jesus 
Yep – been there, done that. Now, it is all for His glory because I couldn’t have (still can’t) accomplished anything without Him. He allows me any and all success, yet all my work is for Him.
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Thank you Susan and as a testimony from me, your work glorifies Him. God bless you!
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The need for approval from our fellow humans is hardwired into us and is perfectly normal. When you think about it, we would not have a lot of our talented people in the arts if they did not enjoy the applause and knowing that they were making others happy with their talents. The important thing is to be aware of it and keep it under control, realizing Who is the only One we really need to please.
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