Acceptance
I was blessed to hear one of our young men lead our devotional thought Wednesday evening and to capture a quote I hope I never forget. Lane Garrett spoke to us about the dangers of distractions and the choices we make concerning who we choose to be around. He discussed his summer where he was able to be more involved with his youth group and participating in his first mission trip and how much easier it was for his faith to feel strong during that period of time. He then said something like … and then school started.
Whether it is school or a job or a social situation where we find ourselves, the point Lane made rings true. Being distracted from our Christianity is a very real danger. It is easier to remember to “be good” when we are surrounded by good. Human nature makes us long for acceptance within our peer group, but we get to choose that group.
Then Lane said something I hope I never forget. He said, “Stop seeking acceptance from a world that crucified the perfect Man.” What wisdom! If I have chosen my group unwisely, I will be seeking acceptance from people whose mindsets and belief systems are at odds with the commandments and ways of God. Why would I do that?
The only acceptance I need is that of my heavenly Father. Perhaps I can gauge that by looking around me to see whose acceptance I am gaining here on this earth. James told us this pretty plainly in James 4:4: “Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?” However, he goes on to write in verses 6-8, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”
I’d much rather my acceptance be by that perfect One Who died for me, than the world that chose to kill Him. Wouldn’t you?
“Just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts.” (1 Thessalonians 2:4)
AUTHOR: Amber Tatum
