A prayer to be delivered from people pleasing by Victoria Rihlano, read by Lea Martin.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for human

masters. Since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward, it is the

Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3, 23 through 24. For years, I worked hard for everyone.

In my home, I loved my children in hopes of giving them a good childhood. I gave my all to my career

to be promoted. In ministry, I worked tirelessly to not let down the pastor or leave the church in need.

My friendships became a full-time job as I couldn't imagine the idea of creating boundaries.

Although these actions were valiant, I was often left disappointed by the response of others and

exhausted from trying to please those around me. It took countless moments of betrayals and heart

ache to realize a change needed to be made. During this time, I started to lean into Colossians

3, 23, which encouraged me, whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord

and not for people. It became clear that much of my heartbreak reflected my own disposition.

Instead of living a life that would honor God, I only wanted to be approved by those around me.

I'd become a slave to the expectations of others.

Doing things unto the Lord requires a shift in thought. Much like the famous phrase,

what would Jesus do? My actions should also reflect, how can I do this for Jesus?

Serving the community should come from a desire to help God's people,

the caring for my children should be a reflection of wanting them to experience God's love through me.

Working hard in my career should reflect wanting to be a good ambassador of the Lord.

In other words, every action should signify wanting to serve God wholeheartedly.

We must also realize that whether we like it or not, there will be disappointment.

There will be times when the love we give won't be reciprocated and the honor we deserve

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