I have done some serious work in the “I-just-want-people-to-like-me” department. This was once such a strong desire within me that I focused on getting my foes to change their minds and prove they were wrong about me rather than just enjoying time with those who love me for who I am.
But here’s the thing: there are some who are simply just committed to misunderstanding you. Or not liking you. Or unable to see through their own sin so they persecute you for yours.
In other words, there are some people in my life who ain’t ever gonna like me. No matter what I do.
I’m finally at a place where I’m OK with this and I see God’s redemptive work. Sweet freedom.
Sweet freedom found in Psalm 62:
Truly my soul finds rest in God;
my salvation comes from him.
2 Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.
3 How long will you assault me?
Would all of you throw me down—
this leaning wall, this tottering fence?
4 Surely they intend to topple me
from my lofty place;
they take delight in lies.
With their mouths they bless,
but in their hearts they curse.
5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from him.
6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
7 My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
8 Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.
9 Surely the lowborn are but a breath,
the highborn are but a lie.
If weighed on a balance, they are nothing;
together they are only a breath.
10 Do not trust in extortion
or put vain hope in stolen goods;
though your riches increase,
do not set your heart on them.
11 One thing God has spoken,
two things I have heard:
“Power belongs to you, God,
12 and with you, Lord, is unfailing love”;
and, “You reward everyone
according to what they have done.”
Verse seven says our honor comes from Him. (emphasis mine in the chapter above)
Which means people can say whatever they want about you. But your honor comes from Him. If someone wants to talk about you, that’s between God and that person, not you.
Whew. Sweet freedom indeed.
While you are enjoying Will Reagan’s rendition of “God Alone (Psalm 62)” I pray you will be able to forgive those who have hurt you in the past and are hurting you still. I pray you will not be crippled by what other people think of you and I pray you will remember that what matters most is what HE thinks of you.
Beloved. Honored. Daughter.
Breath in that freedom, sister.
N,
Here’s another song with Psalm 62: Seeds of Courage, Vol. 1, song 8, “Never Be Shaken.”
http://www.seedsfamilyworship.net/listen-online/
Love these albums!
Hope you like it too,
ls