I am a sinner.

No secret, really, because we can all make that claim. But my secret is this… 

PRIDE. 

A hidden nagging desire to be noticed by the world feeds the subtle sin of shameful pride. It’s a longing that haunts and taunts like a prowling lion targeting his vulnerable prey and preparing his sneaky attack.

I want GOD to be enough. I want what HE says, his approval, his words of affirmation, and his sacrifice to be enough. But yet, I still look to the world. To my husband’s affection, my parents’ and in-laws’ approval, my kid’s gratitude, to recognition, titles, little successes… all the affirming charms of the earth. 

Can you relate?

And what’s the problem with this sort of seeking? It’s never enough, is it?

No, I bet you sense the lack too. So, why do you think we do it? Why do you look to unreliable things and imperfect people to lift you, fill you, and validate you?

Because I think we know better. Somewhere stored away in the vault of our faithful hearts are the truths of God. Who we ARE, secured in Him.

But Satan isn’t so thrilled when we stand firm on these truths. His lies and deception lend us a sweet sip of earthly affirmation, and make us think there’s loads more where that came from. So much that if we can manage to seek and drink enough from the well of the world, we’ll be filled and quenched.

But it’s a lie. Satan is a liar.

Our sin is a lie. And the pride we buy into telling us we need to run after, or that we deserve the world’s praise, is a sin. A sly one that almost goes unnoticed.

Friend, if you are craving or waiting to be noticed by anyone or anything other than God, will you remember with me… Only God‘s affirmation matters, only God‘s approval counts, and only his notice, his opinions, and his unconditional love will truly fill you.

Believing otherwise and acting on it leads to sin that aims to break you down, not lift you up. So how about we stop striving for notice and praise of others, and rest in our true enoughness, completeness, and righteousness that no one can take away… in HIM. 

Reflect: 

Do you ever notice a pattern of seeking or longing for recognition and validation from those around you? From people, awards or accolades?

Pray: 

Lord Jesus, You are the source of all righteousness! All that is good is from you, and all the good in me is from you. Forgive my sinful craving of the world’s notice, as you have already stamped me secure with the most honorable identity as your precious child, adored and flawlessly loved. You are the only one worthy of praise. Help me turn hard toward you, rest in my completeness in you, and rejoice in my worth in you. Amen. 

Seek the Word:

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. (Colossians 3:2)  For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. (1 John 2:16-17)  It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. (1 Corinthians 1:30)

Have a blessed week! 

Your friend, Keri Ann

P.S. To receive my weekly devotional via email sign up for my “Free Gift” at Keri-ann.com/freegift!

& Check out my podcast, “FAITH-FUELED: Devotions with Keri Ann” for my audio devotions! Click here!