How Do You Handle the Temptation to be Recognized by Man, for What You Do or Say? (3.22.17)

Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of GOD,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”
Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your GOD to the test.’” - Matthew 4:5-7

Faith Believers,
It would have been the most sensational day in the history of the Temple. Imagine the reaction of the people, had Jesus floated down into their midst from the highest pinnacle of the Temple. Jesus would immediately have been acclaimed Messiah and there would have been no Cross. Of course, without the Cross, there would have been no salvation or eternal life . . . just an earthly ruler.

How do you handle the temptation to be recognized for what you do or say?

This continues to be a struggle for most people, as well as for those who have given their lives to Jesus. There is always the temptation to draw attention to oneself in order to accomplish something for GOD. Whether it is an important accomplishment at work or school, or simply our own desire to be recognized for doing something in ministry, it seems to be a human tendency to desire the attention of others. Everyone at some point in their life has sought to be approved or confirmed by another human being.

More than any other man, Jesus knew how temporary the acclamation of mankind could be.

What lasts and truly satisfies is doing what the Father has said to do.
And yet, how does one do this consistently,
    with purity of heart and humility?

We must realize that all power in Heaven,
   and on earth, belongs to the Lord.

The Bible says "Who is man that we should be mindful of him?"
  -  Marilyn

~ Prayer ~

It is so easy Lord, to fall into the trap
of trying to attract attention,
even when I’m serving You.

Forgive me when I strive for the approval of men
rather than Your approval.

Help me to not use worldly means to accomplish Heavenly goals.
I want all that I do to be in the power of Your Holy Spirit.

Amen