I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. — John 5:30

Whom are you attempting to win over, exactly? My dad’s words are still echoing in my ears. His purpose? Only two people must be satisfied: we want to know that we’ve done and been the best we possibly can for two reasons: (1) our heavenly Father, who deserves all glory and respect; and (2) ourselves. But I believe I’ve realized through the years that without searching out the first one, I can’t even start to perform the second of those very effectively. Don’t you wish you could join Jesus in proclaiming with complete conviction, “I seek not my own pleasure, but the pleasure of him who sent me”? We become increasingly aware that we are unable to do anything of everlasting consequence on our own as we go nearer to that truth. We only discover the meaning and make the impact that our lives were meant to make when we live to glorify God.

 

Thought

Whom are you attempting to win over, exactly? My dad’s words are still echoing in my ears. His purpose? Only two people must be satisfied: we want to know that we’ve done and been the best we possibly can for two reasons: (1) our heavenly Father, who deserves all glory and respect; and (2) ourselves. But I believe I’ve realized through the years that without searching out the first one, I can’t even start to perform the second of those very effectively. Don’t you wish you could join Jesus in proclaiming with complete conviction, “I seek not my own pleasure, but the pleasure of him who sent me”? We become increasingly aware that we are unable to do anything of everlasting consequence on our own as we go nearer to that truth. We only discover the meaning and make the impact that our lives were meant to make when we live to glorify God.

 

Prayer

I am aware that I am unable to do anything worthwhile in the long run without your help, Almighty and Righteous Father. I’ve made my own attempts and failed. While pursuing my own interests, I had fleeting success. I want to spend the rest of my life trying to earn your approval. I have faith that you will provide me with everything I need and give me the ability to carry out your instructions. In Jesus’ name I ask it. Amen.