Day 4I think we all fall susceptible to people pleasing and trying to impress upon others what we feel is our best self, or what we feel is important. I would be lying if I didn't say this is a struggle for me sometimes. I think especially as a female, there's even more pressure to look your best, look the way society thinks you should look, and act a certain way. But when we succumb to those pressures, we're looking for validation from the world, and not God.
Matthew 5:18-20, John 12:42-43
The Pharisees and teachers of the law (Sadducees) had become religious bookkeepers,
earning their own way and miserable in their counting. They also knew how to make other
people miserable. Impression Management and People Pleasing keep us from the joy of
God’s word. Has this become a part of your life? If yes, how?
But the great thing about God is, it doesn't matter the way you look, or if you say the right things or not. He loves you just the way you are, and wants you to be your own self. More importantly, your self should be rooted in Jesus Christ. And then shining the love and light of Jesus Christ should come all the more naturally. :-)
My thoughts stem from the comment Jill made about being female and being driven to feel like we need to look perfect. God's given me the thought that if I WERE a size 2 and had perfect skin and my hair was never out of place and I had all the latest fashions that I would be less approachable than I am today! Being in a position of authority at work begets others to be cautious in their actions around you and always trying to put their best foot forward. So the challenge to myself at work is to smile more at others, even those I don't know. Make myself seem approachable. You'll never know when someone will finally ask "What's different about you?" K
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate your feedback Kelli! You are so right, I have noticed when our leaders around the hospital have it all together in their fancy suits they do seem less approachable.
DeleteI agree with Jill's comments but I am definitely noticing from our conversations that appearances matter. I think we as a group have been doing a good job acknowledging that and trying to move the conversation beyond it.