I read a social media post a few years ago that caused me to remember to examine myself and be mindful of my surroundings, especially people. The post read as follows:
I will never forget the day I realized that both God and Satan wanted me to die, but for very different reasons. Luke 9:23 states "And he said to them all, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me".
Satan wanted to destroy me through slander while the Lord wanted to use those same lies to crucify my vulnerability to man's control. "But God commandeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8)
The Lord knew a time would come when my life would bless many people. So to inoculate me against the praise of man, He baptized me in the criticisms of man until I died to the opinions of man. Yes, I am accountable, but I now live only for God's pleasure. Whether I please or offend man, that is the Lord's business, not mine.
Don't be a people-pleaser! Remember to live your life intentionally for Christ.
Blessings!
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