SNEAKY

     Idols are tricky. You think they are dead and gone, have no more power over you, and in a moment one can sneak up behind you and let you have it.
    Idols are those things we have bowed down to, lived for - some of mine have been the approval of other people, appreciation for something I did. In recent months I have experienced the freedom of living for Someone greater in a new way. I have felt free of the opinions of others. I have concentrated on following that inner whispered Voice, ignoring the voices around me--even those who praised me. What freedom I have felt, and the knowledge that I am pleasing Him, whether anyone else understands or not.
    I've figured out the real problem behind my idols: they are shamed based. I know that as long as I am following the program, saying the right things, doing what's expected, I'm good...and will receive praise from them. But their praise is double-edged, because it means if I'm not on top of things, not performing correctly, I will feel shamed, by a look, by a word --- usually of praise. That doesn't seem to make sense, but when shame-based people praise, there is always an inner knowledge of the other side of the coin. You're okay today, but tomorrow...well, we'll see.
    I don't live for others anymore. I live for the One who took my SHAME and SIN and conquered them on the cross. He never shames me with a look, His voice, nor His words. He is always saying, "My child, you are on the right track, and we are in this together...you are my Masterpiece, and I'm delighted with everything about you!" Whoopee...