We should only seek the approval of Jesus Christ, not man. I have met so many people that I would call "people pleasers" from trying to woo their boss or employees to the latest guy they are dating. Moms who are consumed with children at the expense of their faith. We get so caught up in the blessings and gifts we have received that we lose sight of the Giver. I speak from personal experience that when you begin to lose focus through all of life's distractions, you run the risk of compromising your faith. Too often people are committing idolatry and they don't even know it. I recently spoke with someone whose grown teenager was praying to God for an Ipad and they happened to receive a check in the mail that covered the cost plus some. The teen bought the Ipad and then gave the leftover money to his mom and said, "tithe this". I was not impressed and expressed so. I verbalized my concern that the child gave God the leftover money, not the first 10% as commanded and even prayed to God for this "gift". I was saddened by the whole thing and could not even feel joy for this child mocked the Lord's existence a week earlier and now was praying for this expensive item. The Lord wants to be first in our life, not second, third, fourth, fifth. He certainly will not continue to bless anyone that continues to turn to Him only when they wants "things". I believe the Lord shines mercy and will come down to our level in order to get our attention but He won't continue to give if the gifts outshine the Giver. Just keep an eye on yourself and your loved ones and "call them" out on their actions if you worry they are straying or losing focus. Just keep God first this holiday season. He is the One that blesses us all, not Santa, and certainly nor luck or karma. Just remember to keep CHRIST in your life everyday, not just at CHRISTMAS. Amen?!
Isaiah 42:8
Exodus 20:3
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