THOSE WHO FLATTER THEIR NEIGHBORS ARE SPREADING NETS FOR THEIR FEET. —PROVERBS 29:5

We all want to be liked. It is human nature to want validation, especially from those we love and respect. There is a trap, though, in loving the praise of others. Needing to have the approval of people can become a form of idolatry. When this happens, we lose the freedom Jesus intends for us. We make choices based on what another person will say or think about us. We begin to live our lives for the applause and praise of others. Often we compromise who we are and some of the things we should be doing in life.

When you are assured that God loves you and accepts you in Christ no matter what you have done, you will not need the praise of others. You may sometimes get worldly praise—and you may receive it graciously—but you will not need it because your security rests firmly in your approval from God Himself.

LET'S PRAY:

Lord, thank You for accepting me and forgiving all of my sins. Show me if I have become a slave to others' opinions of me and help me to be free of the need for their approval. Amen.