Whose Opinion Counts? — A LifeWords Devotion

Some of us spend considerable time worrying about what others think of us. Their opinions, or imagined opinions, can shape and distort our lives. We find ourselves trying to do the impossible by trying to please everybody. Or go to the opposite extreme and get plunged into despondency as we realise that not all are pleased with us.

Paul offers a helpful balance. What others think of him matters, but it doesn’t matter most. He is aware that other people can be carping critics always wanting to pull others down a peg or two. He is also aware that others can be like adoring fan clubs who function as an uncritical cheer squad. He will not be dictated to by either of these sorts of people.

He will not even be dominated by what he thinks of himself. When it comes to his own ministry, he doesn’t consider he is its best judge. He can be too soft or too hard on himself. Similarly, with each of us: we can let ourselves off too easily or jump on ourselves too harshly. We cannot be truly objective.

And so, he concludes that the one whose opinion really counts is the Lord Jesus. He is neither too soft or too hard. He knows what is going on inside as well as outside and so does not judge by appearances. He will judge fairly and honestly. And if that makes us a bit nervous, remember that the one who is our judge is also the one who is our Saviour.

Blessings,

David