Revisiting My ServeSample

Change Your Perspective- Day Six

We'd be fooling ourselves if we claimed never to seek the approval of others. At some point, each of us has attempted to do so. If you're married or in a relationship, this is especially relatable. In the early stages of dating, every detail matters—from your attire, hairstyle, and makeup to the choice of cologne or perfume—all crafted to make a lasting impression. Is this inherently wrong? Not at all. The trouble arises only when we cease these efforts that initially won over our significant other. It's all about creating a positive impression!

Regrettably, we can fall into the same pattern in the church, striving to impress visitors in the hope they return and join our fellowship. Is this inherently wrong? Not necessarily. The problem surfaces when we abandon the practices that initially drew them in! The constant pursuit of impressing and pleasing others can lead to burnout, stripping away joy and fostering a sense of inauthenticity.

The apostle Paul, however, provides a refreshing perspective on this in his advice on changing our focus. He advises, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men." This guidance liberates us from the burden of trying to please everyone and redirects our attention to pleasing the Lord. When joy stems from serving the Lord, serving others becomes a more genuine and fulfilling endeavor. Paul adds, "Knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance." No matter who we try to impress, only Jesus holds the power to reward us with eternal or abundant life. You could spend your entire life seeking to please and impress others, only to be forgotten with time. The good news is that the Lord never forgets! He sees all you do, especially those actions done for His glory. Paul concludes, "It is the Lord Christ whom you serve." Changing our perspective to focus on pleasing and impressing God brings freedom and joy. Shifting our aim from pleasing and impressing people to pleasing God allows us to serve others with genuine contentment. Have you found yourself seeking approval by trying to please others? Have you gone to great lengths to impress those around you? It's time to shift our perspective and remember that it is Christ whom we serve. Let's embrace authentic freedom, serving others without the need for constant approval.

PRAYER

“Father God, teach me how to focus on You when it comes to serving. Change my perspective and give me joy while serving. May I learn to serve You first and serve others without feeling like I have to impress. Thank you for loving me and for allowing me to honor You through service. In Jesus’ name, amen.”