There are “shoulds” and then there are “shoulds.” Some “shoulds”
lead us into a place of peace and contentment. “You should empty the trash can
when it is full.” “You should extinguish the campfire before leaving the camp
site.” Complying with these kinds of “shoulds” brings about a good result.
Noncompliance has decidedly negative consequences.
Some “shoulds” lead to confusion, guilt,
and even condemnation. “You should decorate your house this way.” “You should drive this
kind of car.” “If you are a good person, then you should do this.” And, the one I have been hearing
a lot lately, “You should return to work full-time now that your nest is almost
empty.” Complying with these kinds of “shoulds” encourages self-doubt. Rather
than living authentically, we try to live the way others want us to live.
I have found that I am at my best when I focus on loving God
and seeking His plan and purpose for my life. When I am listening to His voice
and living according to His word, then all of those “shoulds” just fade away. I
am free to live an authentic life without fear or condemnation.
Let go of those “shoulds” today and focus on what God has
for you.
“There is therefore
now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according
to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” ~Romans 8:1
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