You Don't Like Me? But, Why?

Hello all,

I've always been a person to seek for other’s approval, saying that I don’t would be a bold face lie. I needed the approval of my parents, my teachers, my peers, and now that I’m married I need the approval of my husband. I've always had this need to hear “good job”, “well done”, or “I agree with you”. Can you imagine where this behavior leads to? Because of my desire to be liked or approved of, and the fact that not everyone is going to like or approve of you, this could result in a sense of low self-worth. Imagine it: How people see me reflects on how I see myself. If they approve then I approve. If they disapprove then I disapprove. I’d give them so much authority over my own life.

In order to find true joy, I've got to put my need for acceptance behind me. If I base my joy on the opinions of people and their fickleness, I’m sunk before I even jump in the water. Let’s be honest, it’s impossible for every single person on this planet to like me or what I have to say. And, I need to be content with the fact that I was not put here (on this Earth) to make everyone happy or like me (ouch!) On the other hand, I can just focus on pleasing and seeking the approval of God and I’ll be A-Okay.

Signing off,
T.G.
Today I’m reading Psalm 16:11