Twenty-one days…

Last week, I wrote to you and mentioned that I always seek the Lord for a scripture to memorize and apply to my life in the New Year.  Since today is New Year’s Eve day, I thought I would share my scripture for 2013 with you.

Galatians 1:10

For do I now persuade men, or God?  Or do I seek to please men?  For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.

I’ve spent most of my life acting out the role of a people pleaser.  By nature, I enjoy being “the hostess with the mostess.”  I want people to feel welcomed and comfortable.  I have a genuine concern for the happiness of others.  Sometimes it’s a good thing; sometimes it’s not.  Because of this it takes a strong conviction to stir me up and cause me to speak my mind or stand up for my beliefs on certain subjects.  When those moments actually happen, you will realize just exactly how passionate of a person I am.  I used to be quieter than I am now, and there are definitely times I need to zip these lips shut.  On the other hand, when God says, “Speak it.” or “Write it,” then I must do exactly that.  When it comes to godly principles, it is important I stay on the path marked absolute truth.  It may not always make everyone comfortable, but I need to stay within the guidelines of the Bible without worrying what anyone thinks.

The other day over dinner I was having a conversation with a friend.  She told me, “Sometimes, you back down too easily.”  She’s right; sometimes I do.  My job is to consistently pray about my circumstances and evaluate the state of my heart before I speak or act on situations.  If I’ve done that, then God will give me the courage I need to confront each new issue.

I choose to be a bondservant of Christ.  My only concern should be pleasing Him, not man.  It won’t always make life simple.  It can be extremely difficult to stand up for what you believe.  I’m not one who enjoys confrontation, though sometimes it is very necessary in order for peace to follow.

So, this is what the Lord has spoken to me.  What is your scripture for 2013, and what is God speaking to you?

 

 

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