that life is a popularity contest which leads to happiness
for some, but dispair for most who do not receive enough
votes of approval.
Ever feel like you face the same pressure to conform to
a certain style of behavior, dress, or even speech in an
attempt to please the vanities of others? Does work,
school, or even social groups your involved in make you
feel you have to act a certain way to please others who
may hold some degree of higher social or organizational
esteem within the group's pecking order?
Well, if you are like most people, modern life can seem
to be more of a constant struggle to maintain one's
self respect and personal integrity against a mounting
tide of pressure to conform to the worldly edition of
American Idol.
But, what about following that inner voice or feeling you
have when faced with the challenges of conforming to
popularity contests which somehow just "don't feel
right" to you?
Wouldn't it be so much easier to simply say no to those
external pressures the world constantly reminds and
flings at us? How 'bout living your life without
that personal conflict - a life full of peace and
integrity.
Especially, for all those teens wanting so desparately
to "fit in" with the popular kids at school or even
those parents who have to "please" their overly
demanding bosses with the hope to stay gainfully
employed.
"Our purpose is to please God, not people.
He is the one who examines the motives
of our hearts."
1 Thessalonians 2:4 (New Living Testament)
Trust in God's word for guidance when you
have that feeling of what you should do versus
doing what's really good for you.
By following God's will for my life, after trying
to do it my own (wordly) way, there's a profound
sense of peace and knowingness which has replaced
the fear, uncertainty, and doubt that was the result
of attempting to please others just to fit in.
Life has taken on an entirely different sense of security
now - a life without the conflict and drama.
A life from knowing, by God's will and purpose, my needs
will be taken care of on this world and most importantly
the life thereafter.
Thank you, Heavenly Father for all your blessings
and the joy you've placed in my heart to live life
more fully by having the courage and insight to
walk with you and leave the popularity contest
pressures behind forever.
Amen.
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