My Other Self Week 2 : Needing Approval

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the message:

Day 1: Embracing Your True Identity in Christ Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10

Devotional: Today's passage reminds us that we are God's masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus for good works. How often do we forget this truth and instead seek validation from others? Reflect on times when you've prioritized others' opinions over God's view of you. Remember, your worth isn't determined by what others think, but by what God says about you. He has lovingly crafted you with purpose and intention. Today, choose to live from the approval of God rather than for the approval of people. How might your actions and decisions change if you truly believed you were God's masterpiece?

Day 2: Overcoming the Fear of Man Reading: Proverbs 29:25-27

Devotional: "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." This proverb cuts to the heart of our people-pleasing tendencies. When we prioritize others' opinions, we often compromise our values and hesitate to share our faith. Consider areas in your life where you might be trapped by the fear of man. How has this fear held you back from fully living out your faith? Today, practice trusting in the Lord instead of seeking human approval. What bold step of faith might God be calling you to take, regardless of what others might think?

Day 3: Living as a New Creation Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21

Devotional: In Christ, we are new creations. The old has gone, the new has come! This transformation isn't just a nice idea – it's a powerful reality that should shape how we live. As Christ's ambassadors, we're called to represent Him in this world. Reflect on what it means to be an ambassador for Christ in your daily life. How can you embody this new identity in your relationships, work, or studies? Remember, you are no longer defined by your past or others' expectations, but by your identity in Christ. How might embracing this truth change the way you approach challenges or opportunities today?

Day 4: Finding Freedom in God's Forgiveness Reading: Romans 8:1-11

Devotional: "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." What a liberating truth! Many of us struggle with feelings of inadequacy or shame, often fueled by our perceived failures or others' judgments. But in Christ, we are fully forgiven and set free. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, empowering you to live a new life. Today, whenever you feel tempted to dwell on past mistakes or others' criticisms, remind yourself of this truth. How can you extend the grace and forgiveness you've received to others, including yourself?

Day 5: Living for an Audience of One Reading: Galatians 1:6-10

Devotional: Paul boldly declares, "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ." This challenge cuts to the heart of our people-pleasing tendencies. Reflect on your motivations – are you living to please others or to please God? Remember, you can't simultaneously live for the applause of the crowd and for an audience of one. Today, practice making decisions based on what would please God rather than what would impress others. How might this shift in perspective change your priorities or actions?