Day 26 – Living Boldly: Controlled By the Opinions of Others

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Overcoming the fear of others disapproval is a universal struggle for those who base their identity on what others think of them. When we act like this, we give others power over us. We’re nothing more than puppets on a string, always managed by the fickle approval of others. The Bible calls this the fear of man, but you might recognize it better as peer pressure, codependency, or insecurity.
Rick’s 31-Day Devotions
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe (Proverbs 29:25).
The Fear of Man
It’s natural to want acceptance and approval from others, but when that desire controls you, it becomes sin. Insecure people often ask questions like:
- Will they hurt me?
- Will they reject me?
- Will they like me?
Living under the weight of these queries trap you, but God extends freedom. As your faith grows, His opinion of you becomes more controlling than anyone else’s.
Freedom Through the Gospel
When you’re under the control of God’s truth, you are no longer a victim managed by what you want from others. Instead of being shaped their acceptance, you rest in the truth of who God says you are. Here are three reasons why you can be secure in God’s opinion of you:
- It’s Positive: Your sins are forgiven. The righteousness of Christ covers you. God sees you as His beloved child.
- It’s Unchanging: God’s love for you is steadfast and eternal—unlike shifting human acceptance.
- It’s Satisfying: God’s approval brings a deep, unshakable peace that no human opinion can match.
Read Romans 8:31-39 to remind yourself of the security you have in God’s love.
Your Choice
You get to choose who or what controls your mind:
- Fear of Man: Allowing other people’s opinions to dictate your thoughts and actions.
- Fear of God: Resting in the truth that God’s love for you is greater than any human opinion.
Submitting yourself to God is the only way to experience true maturity and freedom.
Time to Reflect
- Are you a Christian? How do you know? Take time to reflect on your relationship with God. If you’re unsure, consider what it means to trust Jesus.
- How is God’s opinion managing you? Are you more influenced by Him or by what others think? What practical steps must you take to find security in the gospel? Here are some suggestions:
- Read daily, meditating on Scripture, particularly about God’s love and promises.
- Pray for God to strengthen your faith and help you
let go of the need for human approval.
- Surround yourself with friends who encourage you
to live for God’s glory rather than people’s opinions.
- Rest in the truth of the gospel. God’s opinion of you is the only opinion that truly matters, and His love is more satisfying and enduring than any human approval.
Let’s live boldly, choosing to live for God’s glory rather than the fleeting opinions of others.
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Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.
In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).