When we desire to make others happy, of course it's a good thing,. (Hebrews 13:16) We want to be a blessing to those around us., to those we love, and to those we can help if only in simple and practical ways. (Romans 15:2) We often see these people as an audience through which we can be reassured, as a vehicle to help establish who we are. But, as a believer is that right? (Jeremiah 17:5) It is true that there are sacred relationships in our life that will directly impact our relationship with God. How we treat our spouse, our parents .or children, our Pastor and church family, and even the lost souls around us are important enough to God that the scriptures provide specific direction for each. He shares his preferences for us so that we can remain in fellowship with Him. (Isaiah 1:19; John 14:23)
When things become unbalanced it's usually in one of two ways. Either we act out of fear about what others will think, say, or do (John 12:43; Matthew 10;28); alternatively we do things primarily to please ourselves. (2 Corinthians 5:15; Romans 8:8; Luke 16:15)The Word has much to say about the nasty consequences that occur when we chose not to follow God's direction in these ways. (Romans 8:8-9) It may be difficult sometimes to face ourselves, our truest motives, and our innermost realities, but that's the path to our victory. (Galatians 6:1-18, 2 Corinthians 7:1)
When we put God first in our life. we are choosing to be overcomers - more than conquerors! (Galatians 1:10) And the Word tells us how to do this! (Ephesians 6:6; 5:8-10) God has already given us everything we need to be a winner, a giant for God, a champion. (Romans 12:1-2) We can win In His eyes, according to His standard.. (Proverbs 16:7) God is the only one in our audience whose opinion matters! (Galatians 1:10, Psalm 18:2) Will we decide to do things Gods way, for His namesake, for His glory and honor? (Acts 5:29) Are we 'Looking unto Jesus' (Hebrews 12:2) and following the One who we ultimately want to be our prize? (1 John 3:22: Galatians 2:20)
More reflection? Romans 8; Titus 2:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:4; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Isaiah 2:22; Colossians, 3:23; Proverbs 29:25; John 5:44; 2 Corinthians 5:9; Proverbs 29:26; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Samuel 16:7; 1 Corinthians 5:6; Romans 12:12; Hebrews 11:6; Isaiah 51:7; Luke 12:4-12; Psalm 146:3; Hebrews 13:15-16; Matthew 6:1-8; Psalm 147:11; John 8:29; Colossians 1:27; 2 Timothy 2:15; 1 Peter 5:8; Psalm 147:10-11; Romans 13:1-7; Psalm 51:16-17; John 12:42;
Excellent!