Kingdom Beauty Design

It wasn’t until I was 25 that I decided to make a public declaration that I would follow Jesus. And to be honest, I wasn’t exactly sure what that exactly meant- all I knew, was that I was tired of the way I was living.

Heartbreak after heartbreak, whether from romantic relationships or friendships, lead me to want something new. Something that perhaps might lead to fulfillment.

That day that I was baptized, was the hardest yet best decision I had ever made for myself. Although my family didn’t join me that day, I knew I had chosen what was placed in my heart to do.

This morning as I read scripture, I came across a passage that stood out to me.

"Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn't admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God." ~ John 12:42-43

That last verse really hit me, “They loved human praise more than the praise of God.”

How often do we do this?

We choose to live by and believe what society tells us to praise rather than to believe what the Word of God says.

Especially in times like these where social media has become a place to share our thoughts that can earn us multiple follows and likes- it can become so easy to rather want human praise than the praise of God.

People pleasing is a real thing and I know this all too well. I like to call myself a “recovering people pleaser.”

But how do we know what is true and honoring to God?

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” ~Psalm 119:105

God’s Word is our guide and it is living and active. He is always ready to help us and guide us.

And to be honest with you, there has still been many times in my life that I struggle discerning what to do, yet God has always been so faithful to provide a way for me even when I feel like there is no way.

Following Jesus doesn’t mean you and I will never fail or experience heartbreak again – we will...

Following Jesus means we don’t have to do life alone and that we have a hope for eternity…

His mercies are new every morning.

Although our flesh may fail, He never will.

Maybe you’re currently struggling with your finances.

You might be struggling in your singleness.

Wondering if you’re in the right career.

Or even considering following Jesus.

Whatever that might be, know that you are exactly where you’re supposed to be, and that your past experiences can be used for good.

Often times, our current situation is less about our circumstance, and more about our heart posture.

“… the Lord’s delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in His unfailing love.” ~Psalm 147:11

While we wait for that answer to our prayer, praise and worship Him there.

Father, thank You for Jesus dying on the cross for me. There’s nothing I could ever do to earn Your love, yet You give it so freely to me. I recognize that I am a loved sinner and that I can’t do life without You. You promise to guide me along the right paths, help me to trust that You will. And when I fail, help me to receive Your grace and follow You again and again. Help me to have a heart that seeks to please You above all things. In Jesus’s name, Amen.