ACCOLADES

            Accolades.  We all seek them whether we acknowledge it or not and do you know what?  We all need them.  That’s right.  We need them.  We as human beings need a pat on the back and once in a while someone to come along side of us and assure us that we are on the right path and we are doing the right things.  A father figure if you will that not only gives us encouragement but wise counsel.

            However there is a unhealthy attainment of accolades that some endeavor to get through manipulation and coercion, putting others down, even stepping on them in order that they might get ahead of them to receive a promotion, a title of importance, a place of authority that they might be the one in charge and giving the orders.

            Those with an unhealthy attitude often find themselves constantly covering their tracks, having told lie upon lie in order that they may sound important or even terribly spiritual, but always unequivocally in charge and therefore worthy to be approached only with reverence.  The image that they are creating is hard to live up to even for themselves which usually encourages more lies and hypocritical actions in order that they seem super human; a real live super hero having no faults, shortcomings or weaknesses of any kind.

            Are you looking for accolades? Do you need a pat on the back?  We all do.  We need to know that our existence on this planet means something; we want to exit stage right and leave behind some kind of lasting impression. 

            May I suggest that we find solace in our Heavenly Father and that we find importance in the fact that He sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross for us.  Steal away from your routines, go to your mountaintop,  your prayer closet or just go for a walk.  Your Heavenly Father wants to put His arm around you, encourage you and give you all the accolades you need and deserve and you just simply have to be yourself.  Be who He has made you to be.  You don’t have to be a super hero or have super human strength.  His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

            Let me tell you: it is a great feeling to come before Him naked, arms open, heart expectant, ready to receive from him the accolades we need and deserve and to obtain them honestly.  It also enables you to give them freely and honestly to others who are struggling in their lives.  

A word in due season brought to you in love by those who know what it is to struggle in the flesh, and how wonderful the release when we rest in the Heavenly Father.  Are you struggling?  We'd love to hear from you.  You may comment publicly by clicking on "COMMENT" below, or send a private prayer request to turnthetideministry@live.com  Our gracious Lord called us to a family that none of us need stand alone.  United we are a strong Body in Christ!