DEAR JESUS
I'm just beginning to realize how much my life is hampered by fear of man. This condition has been so prevalent that I failed to recognize it most of my life; it was simply part of the fabric of my daily existence. Now that I recognize this fear, I want very much to be free of it. But it is deeply engrained in my mind and heart. When I am with people, I'm much too concerned about displeasing them or looking foolish in their eyes. I confess I am a people pleaser, but I deeply desire to change.
BELOVED
I will give you a two pronged approach for dealing with this crippling fear. First replace your fear of displeasing people with dread of displeasing Me-the Lord of the universe. Make pleasing Me your highest priority. Include Me in your thinking whenever you are making plans or decisions. Let your desire to please Me shine brightly, illuminating your thoughts and choices.
The second way to free yourself from fear of man is by developing deeper trust in Me. Instead of trying to please people so they will give you what you want, trust in Me-the Supplier of all your needs. My glorious riches never run short, nor does My love for you. People can easily deceive you,promising you things with no intention of following through. Even if they mean well at the time, they may change their minds later on. Because I remain the same forever, I am absolutely dependable. Trusting in people is risky. Trusting in Me is wise: It keeps you safe.
"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in Me is kept safe..." Proverbs 29:25
Sarah Young - Dear Jesus p. 130
A simple devotion, yet profound. Especially to me these days as I continue to break away from people pleasing. A stronghold that has choked the life of who I was meant to be for many years. But now, as I continue to grow ever stronger in "who I am," my dependence of relying more on my Heavenly Father to direct, protect and sustain me has become my salvation.
OMGosh.... that was so powerful and eye opening. Great to know what's going on with you and putting a name/face to it.
ReplyDeleteJBR, I am glad too to be back! Even more though being able to visit others blogs again and knowing I wont expose everyone to malware from my side! It is so good to read how you improve and grow stronger! Much love to you!
ReplyDeleteThat was a magnificent post, thank you JBR so much for sharing this with me!!!
ReplyDeleteI have indeed discovered for myself, that I only need to be accountable to God and please Him, and I have my Lord Jesus Christ to thank for this!!!
Hi JBR,
ReplyDeleteWonderful!
The closer I walk with Jesus the more I realize how He wants us to keep our eyes on Him and our treasures in heaven. When we have this as our focus then the fear of man diminishes and is replaced with a healthy fear of God.
Praying for you often hon.
Hugs,
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I have this underlined in all the Bibles that I have in my home. Which means, I too have struggled with the fear of man and have become ensnared for many years.
ReplyDeleteI am absolutely dependable. Trusting in people is risky. Trusting in Me is wise: It keeps you safe.
amen amen amen