I am becoming increasingly aware of how incredibly prideful I am,  and how isolating pride can be. I doubt I’m alone in this. We live in a culture where strength and independence are valued and weakness disdained. And I suspect, we often assume expectations and perceive judgement when none exists. Or maybe when it does, because we live in a fallen world filled with sinful, broken humans. That’s why our worth must never be tied to other’s opinion of us, and yes, I’m speaking to myself. 🙂 As my guest, Maria Morgan, author of God Speaking, reminds us, there’s only one opinion that matters.

The Only Opinion that Matters by Maria Morgan

Are you easily swayed by popular opinion? It can be traced back to a strong desire to be accepted. I have to admit it’s easy for me to fall into the acceptance trap.

If I had to identify its root cause, I’d say: insecurity. The dictionary defines ‘insecurity’ as: “A state of mind characterized by self-doubt and vulnerability,” (Encarta Dictionary).

I’ve noticed insecurity rising to the surface when I begin focusing on myself and what others think of me. Maybe you’ve noticed it in yourself, too. Fortunately, we don’t have to be controlled by the need for approval.

A mission

I’m reminded of twelve men who were sent on an important mission. Moses had commissioned one man from each of the tribes of Israel to scope out the land of Canaan. Imagine the excitement of these men as they stood poised to enter the Promised Land, following years of wandering in the wilderness.

Their job was to get a good look at the land and the people who lived there. It was no small task – in fact they were gone for forty days. The children of Israel must have gasped in amazement when the men returned with a cluster of grapes so big it had to be carried on a pole between 2 men.

Different viewpoints

The land was everything God had said it would be: a land flowing with milk and honey. But 10 of the spies focused on the current occupants of the land. They were giants that were very strong. They lived in cities surrounded by impenetrable walls. How would the Israelites be able to take the land when they were mere grasshoppers in comparison?

Popular opinion was having an effect on the people. But instead of going along with the 10 men from their group who had voiced their concerns, Joshua and Caleb expressed faith in a God bigger than their fears. Caleb stilled the people and spoke: “Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it,” (Numbers 13:30).

Overcoming insecurity

Just like Joshua and Caleb, we can avoid being swayed by popular opinion when we focus on God instead of ourselves or what others think of us. In the big scheme of things, it’s what He thinks of us that really matters. His approval breaks the chains of insecurity. Be free today.

Do you struggle with insecurity? What step will you take to live for the Lord’s approval, instead of the approval of others?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me even when I wrestle with insecurity. You are bigger than my fears. Help me live for Your approval instead of the approval of others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*Maria I. Morgan is an inspirational writer and speaker and is passionate about sharing the truths of God’s Word with today’s generation. She lives in sunny Georgia with her husband and daughter, two dogs and two cats. Visit her on the web and download a free copy of her eBook, God Speaking.  Connect with  her on Facebook and Twitter!

Let’s talk about this! What areas have you allowed popular opinion to creep in, bringing insecurity with it? How can you center your mind on the truth in God’s Word instead? How might spending time with Him help?