Greetings,
The human ego can be so deceptive. What we do for God and others must be based upon His greatness—not to exalt or bring attention and honor to ourselves. Notice what John the Baptist said:
Luke 3:15-16 (NKJV) – “Now as the people were in expectation, and all reasoned in their hearts about John, whether he was the Christ or not, [16] John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
If a person has low self-esteem or a wounded spirit, they may unconsciously seek the praise of people, or do good because they need the approval of others. We might live a certain way because we enjoy receiving the praise of men, when our good deeds should be to glorify God and show His love to others. If our motives are wrong and people fail to acknowledge what we have done, we can become hurt or angry.
John the Baptist didn’t fall for that trap. Right up front, he stated that another was coming who was mightier and more worthy than he was. John was that secure in who God had called him to be. Wow!
Father God, You alone deserve the honor and glory. We pray for the humility to serve You acceptably and to always feel secure in the identity You have given us. Free us from being people pleasers to become God pleasers instead.
Today, I’m worshiping with Brooklyn Tabernacle choir and “Sometimes It Takes a Mountain.”
We love you and are praying for you. Be INSPIRED!
Pastor