So, last night was Chris’ last night leading worship for our student ministry. I was running the media for the service, and sometimes when there isn’t a lot going on, I tend to zone out. But not last night! Scott was teaching on Identity, more specifically, acceptance.
He said something that really got me thinking…Instead of worrying about if people will accept you or not, focus on how you can show that you accept them. I know he said that teenagers usually worry about acceptance all the time. Well, bad news folks…It doesn’t often go away when you’re an adult either, as that is something I constantly worry about. Call it low self esteem…call it insecurity…call it whatever. I don’t always take those thoughts captive when I should, and it’s very selfish – very inwardly focused.
And over the last weekend, honestly, they are thoughts I have battled. Chris and I are going to be meeting a lot of new people this coming weekend. I’ve been thinking constantly about what they are going to think of us…if they will accept us as we are or not (I mean, come on – we are pretty goofy!) But Scott inspired me to take those inward thoughts and only focus on how we can love and encourage all these people we’ll be meeting.
Wow…talk about taking a load off. It’s amazing what a shift in thinking will do…
On a side note, please pray for Chris…he has finally caught the cold everyone seems to have. Hopefully, it will pass before our trip to Texas…
I heard you were coming to L.A. to visit…is that true? Often times, you are referred to by other bloggers out here. I just saw you on my brother’s page…just wanted to say HI!
great insight … isn’t it interesting how universal it is to desire something as seemingly simple as acceptance? what a surprise it must be to God, when we’re humble enough to offer it first to others……
thank you for that. i really appreciate it, and tell chris i will pray for him.
Oh my gosh Anne…what an amazing way of putting that.
as someone who’s met you guys, you aren’t really that goofy. pretty cool, actually… :)
thanks for those thoughts (and the reminder to take my inwardly-driven thoughts captive). i agree, worrying about what others think is pretty inward-focused. i think most worry is. now if only i could be more outward-focused…
Risk…breakfast of champions :)
tuesday might actually work.
we get back on Monday sometime, so i will either call or e mail ya
You guys are in for a whirlwind of change. How exciting! I wonder where you’ll end up.
annnne
its on time warneer cable.. beginning for feb.. oh wait it is feb
just look for it.
i love youuuuuu
xoxoxoxoxo
missamanda.
Yes, we all could use acceptance, though for some of us, it’s not that easy to get, unfortunately.
Hope everything goes well with you and Chris. You guys are in my thoughts!