"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5: 6-7 (NIV)

My friend, Kathrine Lee, once challenged me with this question: Are you doing this because you are loved or so that you'll be loved?

Her question is a great one.

Doing something "so that we'll be loved" is a trap many of us can get caught in. When I do something because I'm trying to get someone else to notice me, appreciate me, say something to build me up, or respect me more, my motives get skewed.

I become very "me" focused. I put unrealistic expectations on myself and the other person. And I can get stinkin' angry when I don't feel more noticed, appreciated, or respected.

I can get all twisted up and take my frustration out on myself and that person in an unfair way. I typically sabotage my own efforts and bend to discouragement and defeat.

But, doing something because I am loved is incredibly freeing.

I don't view the relationship from the vantage point of what I stand to gain. Instead, I look at what I have the opportunity to give. I am "God focused" and love directed. I keep my expectations in check. And I am able to lavish the grace I know I so desperately need. I live free from regret with clarity of heart, mind, and soul.

So, how do I know if I'm doing things because I'm loved or so that I will be loved? See how easy or hard it is to apply this Scripture:

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." (1 Peter 5: 6-10 NIV)

Because I am loved, I can humble myself.
When I'm trying to be loved, I must build myself up to look better.

Because I am loved, I can cast all my anxiety on Him.
When I'm trying to be loved, I cast all my anxiety on my performance.

Because I am loved, I can resist Satan and stand firm in my faith.
When I'm trying to be loved, I listen to Satan and stand uncertain trying to rely on my feelings.

Because I am loved, I know God will use this to make me stronger - and I want that.
When I'm trying to be loved, I don't want to be made stronger - I want life to be easier.

Indeed, I want to pursue life, relationships, and the goals I set from a healthy and free vantage point — because I am loved.
Dear Lord, I don't want my motives to get skewed today. Help me to not be so 'me' focused. I want to live each day knowing that I am loved. Living because I am loved is freeing. I long to stop trying so hard. I know You love me, Lord and that You are making me stronger. Thank You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

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Related Resources:

Tired of people pleasing? Read this article on Lysa's blog today. She's also giving away several helpful resources as well.

If this devotion resonated with you, don't miss Lysa's book: Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl.

Also, you'll want to consider doing the 6 week Bible study using this DVD set.

Come see the downloadable Freebies on Lysa's website! Encouraging articles for lots of situations to print and share with a friend! www.LysaTerKeurst.com

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Application Steps:
Isn't it interesting how much easier it is to apply scripture when we're doing it because we're loved? As you read your Bible this week filter each word, teaching, and story through this perspective. Record the difference between reading God's truths because you are loved vs. trying to be loved.

Reflections:
Doing something "so that we'll be loved" is a trap many of us can get caught in...but, doing something because I am loved is incredibly freeing.

Power Verses:

1 Corinthians 13:4, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." (NIV)

John 8:12b, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk I darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV)
© 2011 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.