No More People-Pleasing
5 Ways to Freedom in God’s Love with Tasha Layton
Tasha Layton’s journey from people-pleasing to embracing God’s love offers profound insights for anyone on a faith journey.
During her interview with Family Life Radio, Tasha shared how understanding the fear of God rather than the fear of man transformed her life. Here are key takeaways that can help you experience similar freedom and growth in your walk with Christ.
The Fear of Man vs. Fear of God
Tasha admitted, “I had an immense fear of man instead of fear of God. You know, Proverbs says the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord.”
Many of us struggle with seeking approval from others rather than focusing on God’s approval. Let the verse Tasha mentioned, Proverbs 9:10, inspire you to pray for wisdom, which can help shift your focus from people to God.
The Root of People-Pleasing
“I think I was so concerned with what people thought. And, you know, whether it was my upbringing or my woundedness along the way that really got its hook in me. … It was connected to the fear of rejection,” Tasha revealed.
The fear of rejection often drives people-pleasing behaviors. Identifying past wounds and seeking healing through prayer, counseling, and community support can address this root issue.
Understanding that your worth is defined by God and not by others’ opinions is crucial for overcoming people-pleasing.
A Transformational Moment
Tasha’s life changed during a sabbatical: “When I moved from California to South Carolina for a sabbatical, I took some time and went to Colorado to a counseling program. Within four or five days of being there, it shifted because I didn’t realize everything was connected for me – knowing my value and worth to God and how much he loved me.”
Taking intentional time for reflection and seeking God’s perspective can be transformative. Consider a personal retreat or sabbatical for spiritual growth. Use this dedicated time to reconnect with God and understand His view of your worth.
Embracing God’s Love and Value
“When you know how much God loves you and how much He values you, it changes everything,” Tasha shared.
Understanding God’s unconditional love can transform how you see yourself and your actions.
Meditating on Scriptures about God’s love, such as Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us,” and asking the Holy Spirit to reveal His love in a deeper way can be life changing (NIV).
Living Out the Freedom of God’s Love
Tasha described how knowing her value changed her interactions: “I left that week smiling at strangers in airports. I was offering to do stuff for random people, to help them because once you know your value and your self-worth, then it changes the way you treat other people because they are such a precious masterpiece of God.”
Experiencing God’s love on daily basis influences interactions and attitudes.
Practice acts of kindness and service as an expression of God’s love in you. When you see others as precious masterpieces of God, your motivations and actions will reflect His love.
Shifting Motivations and Actions
“The love of God, it changes everything,” Tasha emphasized.
God’s love changes your motivations, making your actions more aligned with His will. Regularly assess the motivations behind your actions and seek to align them with God’s love and purposes. As you do, you’ll find a deeply fulfilling sense of peace and purpose.
As you reflect on Tasha’s story, consider these questions:
- What fears are holding you back from fully embracing God’s love?
- How can you take intentional steps to understand your worth in God’s eyes? Remember, you are valued and loved beyond measure.
- Will you let this truth transform every aspect of your life?
May you be blessed as you continue your faith journey, discovering the freedom and joy that come from knowing you are perfectly loved by God.
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