It's not about me. Or you.

When I was in college I led a bible study of younger girls at our dorm. One of the issues that often came up was our tendency to obsessive about ourselves - specifically our perceived weaknesses and strengths. There was a worship song that was popular at the time that said "It's all about you, Jesus, only you." In jest, I would often change the words and sing to the girls (sarcastically, of course), "It's all about me, Erin, only me." The girls would giggle and we'd move on, but on some level I hope and pray that the point hit home.

We all have the tendency to make our lives about us. We worry about how we look, what people think, whether we are worthy, whether any boys have their eyes on us, and on and on. We live in a culture that tells us that our success in life is completely wrapped up in our appearance and our material pileup of stuff. Sorry boys, but you fit into that category as well; a living and breathing addition to our material pileup of stuff that supposedly adds credit to our credentials.

I have absolutely no idea how to successfully counteract this teaching with truth. I mean, I know what the truth is, I just can't figure out how to convince young girls that it really is better the way that God meant it to be.

There is something so much better; a way of living that brings such deeper joy, satisfaction and fulfillment. I can't even begin to describe what it feels to be free. Truly free. I have lived in both worlds, and I am convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt that every single person who would honestly and seriously try walking God's way would never turn back. There wouldn't be anything appealing to turn to. . .

And yet, somehow I have failed to convince many girls that this is true. I have watched in overwhelming sadness as they have heard about this man named Jesus, spoken of a great affection for Him, and then turned and followed the opposite path towards self-gratification. They have walked away from Christ and pursued worldly success and material pileup. Oh, it breaks my heart. . .

And its humbling. . . Because it reminds me that it isn't about me either. I can't use my amazing wit or depth of wisdom to convince anyone of anything. Its the work of God Himself through His Holy Spirit that convicts hearts and draws young women to Himself. I can only do so much; and in the end its all about Jesus, not about me anyway.

I am praying for the young women in my life this morning. Begging the God who can calm the seas and send rain from the heavens to move in their hearts and forever change their lives. I pray that they would see Jesus and realize that He is worth more than this world could ever offer. . . No worldly success or material pileup could compare with this Redeemer of mine.

It's all about you, Jesus. Only you.