Daily Bible Reading

The Word for Today - The martyr attitude!

e martyr attitude!

People with a 'martyr attitude' do things out of a sense of duty, not joy. They feel guilty about enjoying life. They tend to begrudge happiness to those around them. They resent it when others don't do things for them, yet they won't ask for help in case they create a sense of obligation. The fact is, 'martyrs' don't value themselves, so they think nobody else does. That's not how God wants you to live. The Bible says there's a time to work, to play, to laugh and to enjoy life. Jesus said, 'I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.' (Jn 10:10 ) You need fun and relaxation. They're not unspiritual! Without them, you become unbalanced and you open yourself to stress-related illness, mood swings and compulsive behaviours. You find yourself constantly vulnerable, driven and unable to relax.

Refuse to take on a false sense of responsibility. Don't neglect or deny your own legitimate needs. Yes, you're called to help others, but it's not wrong to do things for yourself, to receive from God, and those He sends to bless you. If somebody compliments you, accept it graciously. If they attempt to belittle you, ignore it and move on.

David said, 'You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.' (Ps 16:11). So begin to spend more time with God and His Word.