Scripture
For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:10)
Observation
Serious question: do I seek the favor of men or of God? God most definitely; men most accurately. It’s much easier and comfortable to give in to peer pressure and making others happy than it is to hold fast to where God is leading and what the Holy Spirit is prompting. To be a peacekeeper rather than a peacemaker. It’s much more composed around the joint when we all just go with the flow than when we try and swim an alternate route even if that’s where the conviction of the Holy Spirit is leading.
I’m guilty...Guilty of striving to please the wrong people. Guilty of not speaking out boldly and being a true bond-servant of Jesus Christ. Guilty of managing rather than leading, insisting rather than inspiring, copying rather than creating. I’ve too often nodded my head in agreement in order to make sure I’m not blacklisted, eloquently justifying my position to align with words like grace, unity and compassion.
Paul would have had it no other way. There was no question to where and to whom his allegiance lied. His boldness was rooted in his deep and unyielding devotion to Christ and his comprehension of the grace offered to him.
Application
So what’s keeping me from having that same position of attitude, heart and action…besides completely giving up all my rights and comforts? Cause that’s what is really boils down to, me being able to live a surrendered life with zero authority.
- It means that my intimacy with God needs to be on another level.
- It means my boldness will always and only be found in complete obedience to His will and command.
- It means that I will boldly stand for unity and peace in the name of Jesus Christ, trusting His direction and submitting to His command.
And therein lies the trickiest part of all…when doing so I need to accept the risks to my comfort that comes with it. Paul received resistance even from those he labored with, but that didn’t stop him. Being at peace with all men is important, but never at the risk of God’s will being incomplete or undone.
“Fortune favors the brave.” As I’m brave to seek God’s favor alone, fortune will follow. Now this type of fortune isn’t about wealth or riches, but the fortune of being at peace with all men through God’s will and strength and accepting any resistance as a part of God’s perfect plan and for Him to bring a perfect peace.
Prayer
Jesus help! So grateful for Your grace and your undying compassion. May I keep my eyes on You and heart set on You alone. Help me to obey You and still love people.
