Validate

Reading For Today: Proverb Chapter 12

Gold Nugget

Verse 9: “Better is the one who is slighted but has a servant, than he who honors himself but lacks bread.”

Commentary

The need for recognition is the inner drive that too often motivates our actions. We all want to be acknowledged, even if some of us disguise it better than others. We want people to confirm what we are convinced we have. Whether it's charm, looks, personality or anything of value, we need others to recognize it in us. Some of us struggle with it more than others, but it is not unique to any of us. It simply isn't enough that we see our awesomeness in ourselves, we need others to acknowledge it as well. It should be enough that we recognize are fortunate blessings and simply thank God. As today's gold nugget proclaims, “Better is the one who is slighted but has a servant, than he who honors himself but lacks bread.”

It isn't always wrong to want others to validate you. The desire to be validated can be innocent. In this aspect, we may be looking for confirmation. This is different than wanting to be recognized, appreciated or possibly envied. The need for validation can be as honest as seeking confirmation to ensure you are on the right path. Before you quit your job to become a professional singer, you might want to validate through others whether or not you can sing. Validation can be innocent, but the need for others to value you may never come to your satisfaction

Prayer

Lord, help me to find comfort in who you say I am. I am grateful when others validate me when it is appropriate, but help me to avoid seeking man for my value. Amen

 

 

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