The Need to Be Liked

We live in a world that craves attention. I watched a story on social media and the announcer say, “And they have only received two likes”... meaning that only two people found the content worthy of response. Part of it is a sales gimmick to get your name and info for advertising, but there are so many that need to feel wanted/liked. I have often struggled with people having a job as an influencer. That means they offer viewpoint or content that people want to follow. The more followers they have, the greater their influence and the more money they can make on ads. Their whole job is to be liked or interesting enough that people want to follow them. One, it baffles me that some people can make a good income from doing that. Worse yet is the people that feel the need to follow them... to live vicariously through them. Now, not every influencer is self absorbed and not every follower needs someone else to add meaning to their life, but I have the feeling the numbers are pretty high. There are also the fan clubs for Hollywood stars and other public figures whose life find meaning in who someone else is or what they do. The Pharisees and Sadducees, if they were around today, would probably be trying to get peoples approval through social media. We are told they fasted, prayed very publicly, and gave gifts so that people would notice them. God tells us that they have received their reward in full and it has no bearing on their spiritual wellbeing. False prophets wanted to echo what the people wanted to hear. Even today, there are many churches and members that are more likely to parrot the things of the world rather than that of God. They are more interested in the world’s approval than what God has to say. Now the light must shine upon us. Is what we do for the joyful service of our Lord or are we also seeking to be liked by the world? When we do something or offer a “free” service, are we upset if we don’t get thanks or if others don’t recognize us? I’m not saying others shouldn’t be grateful, but if we are serving the Lord, then being faithful to Him should be our greatest desire. As you spend time in prayer before God, ask Him for ways that you might serve Him and those He has placed in your lives. Then do it without need for praise. Father, to You be all glory and praise now and forever. May all that has life and breath praise Your holy name. Amen