So much of our busyness is driven by a powerful and often unspoken word: “should.” “I should volunteer for that committee.” “I should sign my kids up for another school activity.” “I should have a cleaner house.” “I should host one more summer gathering.” These “shoulds” can become a heavy burden of expectation.
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10 (ESV)
The apostle Paul draws a clear line. We can live for an audience of one (God) or an audience of everyone else. When our schedules are filled with activities born out of a fear of disappointing others or a need to keep up appearances, we are no longer free. We are living under the tyranny of “should.” Freedom is found in discerning between the world’s expectations and God’s calling. His assignments for us are always rooted in love and purpose, not in pressure or performance.
Action Steps:
Prayer:
Lord, give me the wisdom to know Your voice and the courage to tune out the noise of the world’s expectations. Free me from the tyranny of the “shoulds” so that I can joyfully serve You and You alone. Amen.