No Matter What People Say, God Is for You
By Rick Warren

“The Lord is for me, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 118:6 NLT).

If you try to do anything of value in life, naysayers will come your way. They might ridicule you, spread rumors about you, or even threaten you.

But don’t focus on the naysayers. Don’t focus on your problems. Focus on God and his promises. Become a promise person.

In 1 Samuel 30:6, the Bible tells us about David’s reaction to one instance of criticism: “David was seriously worried, for in their bitter grief for their children, his men began talking of killing him. But David took strength from the Lord” (TLB).

When a naysayer comes your way, don’t head to a co-worker or a friend to gossip. Find strength in the Lord. Pray, “Lord, I know you love me. I know you have a plan for my life. I’m going to trust you.”

David says it like this: “The Lord is for me, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 118:6 NLT).

People can dislike you, and it won’t harm you. You don’t need anyone else’s approval to be happy. You’re as happy you choose to be. You don’t need a parent’s approval, a brother’s approval, a sister’s approval, or some friend’s approval. The Lord is for you. You don’t have to be afraid. People have their opinions. So what?

David writes in Psalm 119:11a, “I’ve banked your promises in the vault of my heart” (The Message).

That’s what you need to do. Stop storing up in your mind all the negativity that comes your way. Instead, bank on the promises of God. And trust that he will do exactly what he says he will do.

Play today’s audio teaching from Pastor Rick >>

Talk It Over:

  • If it’s true that “you’re as happy as you choose to be,” why aren’t more people happy?
  • What are some promises from God that are helpful for you when you face naysayers in your life?
  • Whose approval have you struggled most to get in your life? Why have you longed for that person’s approval? Ask God to help you look to only him for approval.

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This devotional © 2017 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

You can listen to Rick Warren on OnePlace.com.