May 26,2011 - Acts 17:32

“When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, ‘We want to hear you again on this subject.’” Acts 17:32.
Paul came to the end of his opportunity to speak to the people of Athens, and told them, in conclusion, about the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. A number of the people were skeptical and scoffed, waving this message off as mere fable or story-telling. There were others among the crowd who were interested in learning more about what Paul had to say. There was a curiosity within these people that drew them to Paul to learn more about who Jesus was and to learn about this God who brings people back to life. Paul was not affected by anyone’s reaction or response. He was ready to give an explanation of his faith in Jesus to whoever sought to know more.
Often times when speaking to an audience, I look to the crowd to see their response or reaction. I have been swayed by my perception of what others thought of my message. In fishing for a positive response, I would even ask some individuals how they thought I did. I realized in doing this that my insecurity and lack of a healthy self-image was very evident. I have pushed through to the place where I do not care as much about what the people think, but, instead, I am more concerned about what God thinks. Looking at Paul’s example, I am trying to focus more on what God wants for me to say and focus less on the audience’s response.
Questions to consider: How can you tell when you are too concerned about what people think and too concerned about how they respond to you? How can you tell when you are focused on God and not others? Where is your security, in yourself, others, or God?
Prayer: Father, help me to center on what You want of me and not on what people want. Give me strength to speak Your message through my words and my actions. Amen.