quote:

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I used to have this theory that christians have more self control and more perception than others. I’m not so sure you are helping support that theory. Are you all Christians? I really have no idea.

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Those quotes apply to this thread, but if it's ok, I'll wait to comment on them until the end.



I'm currently reading The Life You've Always Wanted by John Ortberg and The Rhythm of Life by Richard Exley. Both of which speak about a covert "approval addiction" that develops within us(probably having to do with our upbringing or current environment).

Apparently, anyone can fall prey (even with a complete understanding that our worth is found in Jesus Christ) this 'approval seeking mechanism' can sneak up on us and drive us to seek worth from others in different ways. ew.

So, here I am starting a thread exposing
the development of an "approval addiction"
in my own life.

Although I don't have this problem in all contexts (ie. this board) I've noticed remnants of it in other areas of my life.

I don't know if its about lack of self control, the ease of auto-pilot, some subconscious spill-over from the past, or
just the fact that approval feeeeels so
good?

I used to crave approval growing up, even through my teen years, but, when I came to Christ (and drank from His well) I saw that human approval really paled in comparison. Truly, I lost my desire to please men, and sought only to do well with my family and please God. I remember people would say "I marched to a different drummer" and I was cool with that

Now, (while reflecting on the text in these books) I see clearly that this creepy "addiction" is coming back.

For me, it's probably rooted in my past, but is being developed anew in my current environment. I notice it mostly in school. I have this drive to be the BEST (not for public recognition, but so that the prof would see my hard work and that special gleam would be in his eye...ha!..ohhh the gleam)

Anyway, I'm going on a contemplative vacation/retreat where I plan to slay both
this evil "addiction" and the remainder of the "anal retentive demon" too!

Any advice?
love,
selah


Ifo: Yes, I'm sure I'm a Christian. I'm not sure of YOUR definition of a Christian. And, I'm definitely skeptical about your theory.

Blessings,
selah

"Truly I tell you..." Jesus






Edited by - selah on 03/19/2002 4:58:47 PM