While there may be some in this world who actually find pleasure in being an irritant to those in their lives, the majority of us prefer to be pleasant. The truth is, for many (including me), being liked is important; and in truth this is not only socially accepted it is socially expected. Nobody enjoys dealing with an unpleasant person.
When does it become UN–healthy to be a people pleaser? Is it possible to live your life being so motivated by the need to please everyone in your life that you really are not able to actually live your life? Wouldn't that be a miserable life? Is it actually possible to please all of the people all of the time?
I spoke three times today and each time battled with thoughts of pleasing people. What will so and so think about this or would this story be funny or will I get a "good sermon, pastor"? The concerns were such that caused me to fret and worry. It doesn't happen often but today it did.
While I realize this to some small degree to be normal, I have to wonder, "Is it right"? Is this mindset pleasing to the Lord? Is this really setting my affections on things above? Can it lead to a life pattern of merely tickling ears?
The answer is obvious; the responsibility of the under-shepherd is to feed and to care for God's sheep, and sometimes that requires doing things that may not be pleasing. Because I am to speak the truth, there are times the truth will not be liked. In addition, many times the best delivered sermon reaps the least spiritual effect, and likewise there are times the poorest delivery results in the greatest spiritual effect. The truth is, it is the Lord who brings about effectual change and it is apart from my personal oratorical skills and abilities.
Knowing the truth and living it are often two different things. Dear Lord! Please deliver me from... me… and the sometimes strong urge to please people above pleasing you!
No comments:
Post a Comment