Christlike Nations

Matthew 11:28-29

Have you ever tried to please people and they actually liked it? It feels awesome, right? You feel all accepted and satisfied. And then, when another chance comes along to impress a different group of people, you jump right into it without even thinking twice.

Easily, this can turn into a “vicious cycle of people-pleasing.” It is all too common for individuals to find themselves trapped in this cycle, seeking validation and approval from others rather than seeking affirmation from a higher source. This insidious desire for recognition and praise can swiftly transform into a relentless pursuit of pleasing others, ultimately leading to a loss of personal identity. It is crucial to recognize that relying solely on the approval of others is a toxic mindset that can permeate every aspect of one’s life. Over time, even our own consciences begin to sound the alarm, signaling the dangers of persisting on this path. Ignoring these warnings from within, we continue to sacrifice our authentic selves in the pursuit of fleeting acceptance and hollow fulfillment.

In our quest for happiness, acceptance becomes a significant aspect of our lives. Seeking acceptance is a natural inclination, reflecting our inherent need for belonging and validation. However, it is essential to be cautious about where we seek this affirmation. Oftentimes, we turn to other people for acceptance, yet we must recognize that humans did not create us and their ability to genuinely appreciate us may be limited, especially if they have not experienced spiritual transformation. Instead, it is prudent to seek the acceptance that only God Almighty can provide. His boundless love and understanding fulfill the deep longings of our souls.

When I was younger, I had this group of friends in school who formed a clique. They were the cool kids, you know? And man, I really wanted to be a part of their crew. But as hard as I tried, I just couldn’t seem to get accepted. They were known for getting into mischief, and despite that, I still longed to belong. So one day, I took a risk and brought some forbidden stuff to school, hoping it would show them how far I was willing to go to fit in. But guess what? It totally backfired on me! One of the clique members took a look at what I had brought, enjoyed it, and then turned around and threatened to report me to the school authorities. I was scared out of my wits because I knew that if he followed through, I would be facing suspension. That experience taught me a valuable lesson: trying to please others and constantly seeking acceptance is a toxic cycle that needed to be broken.

Aren’t you tired of trying to meet up with the demands of people? They require you to be as they want, and when you meet a new group of people, they also have their set of demands. And this cycle continues even up to adulthood. Soon afterward, depression, anxiety, and diminished self-value become your everyday experience and some people end up in mental homes or on constant dependence on anti-depressants or even suicide.

Aren’t you tired of trying to meet up with the demands of people?

Felix Osiobor

The solution to this is not more sessions with a psychologist or mental health therapist. The solution to this is turning to the One who created you, the One who genuinely loves you – Jesus Christ and allowing Him to inform you of the value that He has placed in you and allowing Him to be your God as you ask Him to forgive you of your sins.

Jesus Christ has rest for your soul which is far better than any feeling of acceptance that this world can offer you. Jesus Christ is the only One who can truly accept you unconditionally, regardless of what you have done or didn’t do; His arms are wide open to you. All you need to do is acknowledge that you have been living in sin, and you no longer want sin to rule you; you no longer want people-pleasing to rule you but now you want Jesus Christ to rule you.