Pastor Julian Lowe, in a conversation with Carey Nieuwhof on his leadership podcast, made this striking statement: “It is more important for me to be unafraid and grow than it is to be liked and loved by people.” That is a wonderful insight. Growth must become more valuable than anyone’s judgement.

• Growth matters more than your disapproval of me.
• I cannot allow fear of criticism to stunt me emotionally.
• I must never crave your approval so deeply that, without it, I define myself as a failure.
• God and I are on a growth mission. That is my life’s goal.
• Opinions are only opinions. They may influence me but they must not be allowed to hinder God’s work in me.
• Living trapped, stuck, and stunted is unacceptable. But choosing growth—Abba-led, Jesus-inspired, Spirit-driven—is freedom.

Close

The being “liked or loved” by another person must never hinder me from pursuing God’s growth mission.

Prayer

Father, help me grow. Every day help me grow and be transformed. I am yours. Show me your presence every day and that will be enough for my soul. Amen.

Scripture

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” — Romans 12:2