We possess independence which allows us to think for ourselves, using our free will from God (not necessarily God's will) to make life decisions. Believe me, I have experienced the use of my free will, and it usually didn't end up well.
This goes deeper. What kind of person are you? Deep down? Do you care for others or are you selfish? Does money rule your world or does love? Do your friends and family know who you are or do they get to see the persona that you wish for them to see?
What if, one day, every one of us could see the "real" you? Would you be happy about that? Or do you cringe at the thought of someone knowing your true motives?
God is not fooled by our selfishness and is
“a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart”
(Hebrews 4:12)
"All a person's ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord"
(Proverbs 16:2)
In the end, we will all be judged. We will all come before the Lord and answer for our transgressions. Let that sink in. Every single thing we do, say, think, act upon, that is displeasing to the Lord, will be questioned.
There is so much more to this life than money, wealth, power, control, and winning... Yes, I said winning... Being a former collegiate athlete, I'll admit a lot of that part of my life was about winning... Winning on the court, winning in school, winning the approval of my professors, etc... But I can tell you one thing for sure is that not once in my life have I ever thought my life was about how much money I make... maybe about how much I could help, or give to those in need... but never about me. Many people I know think completely the opposite. They are money-driven. I am results-driven. I want those I work with, laugh with, are friends with, volunteer with (for the most part) to be happy and fulfilled. And no matter who tells me how to act, what to believe, etc., I will do what is deep down in my soul to do.
I need to find that happy medium... where I'm not being taken advantage of, but also, where I am taking care of myself. But I'm not a medium kind of gal. ;)
––––––––––––––––––––
make the choice to be the bigger person.
do what is right.
don't be selfish.
God knows your heart.
