Don't Drink the Haterade!
You got that social media envy? They got more likes, more followers, more comments?
Are you sizing yourself up to your co-wokers? They are getting praised more, your hard work goes un-noticed?
You feel like a complete failure? The neighbors seem to be the perfect family. Their house is clean, their kids look like they showered today, they look like the Brady Bunch while you feel like the Adams Family.
We compare ourselves to others all the time. Wether it is someone we know or don’t. This sin (let’s call it what it is) has only increased with the rise of social media. People have gone to extremes on social media to get a like. This comes to no surprise but people are following other accounts to get a follow back, once they do they ‘unfollow’ that person so their followers number is higher then their following number. Sad, but we all are a victim to this type of selfish desire.
"I have never coveted anyone’s silver or gold or fine clothes. You know that these hands of mine have worked to supply my own needs and even the needs of those who were with me. And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:33-35)
Did you read that? Dang Paul, sounds a little conceded. I mean he says “I never coveted.” He tells the people "these hands of mine have worked to supply my own needs.” He even says “ I have been a constant example” like a boss! Paul was not saying that because he was looking for praise, he was saying it out of a genuine heart. A heart that found all its satisfaction in Jesus, not the things of this world. How often do we find our joy, strength, peace, and selves in the name of Jesus?
My identity is found in JESUS
I know in my life I have to regularly reexamine my thoughts, priorities, and desires. Because naturally my actions take me in the wrong direction. I need Jesus to shine! Shine a light on the path before me, shine a light on my sinful thoughts. Do you need to reexamine? Reexamine your thoughts and actions? Can you look back over the last day or so and remember your social media envy? When you felt like others are celebrated even though your deserving?
This is a constant issue that we MUST reexamine. I can remember just recently taking a photo to post but I had to take the photo like 5 times (gotta get that photo looking fresh). On top of that I may have spent like 5 minutes reorganizing my desk so it looked like I was doing something important.
Social media has a great power, a power to connect people all over, to grow in relationships. But we naturally use it negatively, instead of building relationships we are building followers.
It is better to give than to receive
You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35)
That goes against everything our society says and our own sinful desires. But if we have ever actually gave to someone else we know its true. When we give of our time and resources we do experience a blessing. Not just becuase of the others reaction, but becuase we know this. Jesus Christ was praised through our actions.
How will you care and think of others today? Know that your true identity is in Christ not the praise of men and women.
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