Which one do you want? Like by people or loved by God?

Well, I know the answer already. You choose to be loved by God over being liked by people; each of us does. However, is that how you live?

In some way, each of us wants people to like us. We live at a time when we can write things online and people “Like” or “make it a favorite.”

Do you remember Ananias and Sapphira?

I am sure we remember how Ananias lied to the apostles regarding the money given and how he immediately died. We remember Sapphira arriving shortly afterward and lying to the apostles, as she agreed with her husband. We remember how she died too. (Acts 5.1-11)

However, why would they agree to lie? Did they think more people would like them because of their actions?

I am going out on a limb and say that Ananias and Sapphira saw something you and I might forget; they saw Barnabas. Acts chapter 4 closes with the account of Barnabas and his heart of true giving. Barnabas, the son of encouragement, sold a field and laid the proceeds at the apostles’ feet. (Acts 4.36-37)

Following the account of the generosity of Barnabas is the deathly account of Ananias and Sapphira. As Barnabas did a great thing, Ananias and Sapphira chose to sin. Did Ananias and Sapphira choose to lie because they wanted to be liked as well as Barnabas?

The world may never know. However, do you choose to be liked by men or loved by God?

Just a thought,