Whose Approval?

In recent years, my life has become slightly less complicated. I simply learned the difference between being a people-pleaser and doing what I really want to do. It was a tough lesson to learn, but once I understood the freedom that came when I embraced the different mindset, I grew more as an individual and learned more about myself.

Much of this started when I began my journey at Roberts. I was very unsure of myself and what I really enjoyed doing. I mostly did the activities that others were doing, whether I truly enjoyed them or not. The end of sophomore year came around, and I had to decide between a handful of leadership positions, classes, and campus activities. I had the people-pleaser mindset, but knew I had to say no to some of the options on my list. How was I going to make those decisions? Easy - ask everyone around me what to do! ...BAD IDEA! I got so confused about what I really wanted for myself after too many people's opinions were floating in my head. What a mess that was! Junior year, I kind of took time for myself and discovered what I really enjoyed doing. It was great! I went to concerts that I enjoyed, I read books for fun, I took interesting classes, and took a backseat when it came to leadership on campus. I enjoyed discovering what I liked to do! Senior year came around, and I had the confidence I needed to make decisions based on what I wanted instead of trying to please everyone around me - what a difference that makes!

All of this brings me to think about a verse in Galatians 1:10, "For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ."

I needed to learn that man's approval is not the most important thing. I am ultimately a servant of Christ and need to be living a life pleasing to Him. I think He would want me living a life that I enjoy, not stressing about the opinions of others. I challenge you to think about who you are striving to please!