What makes you think you need permission?

From the earliest of ages, we begin to hear the word no.

Our parents and authority figures use it to establish boundaries. It is necessary and helpful. But one of the harmful side effects of no is that it causes us to start seeking permission to do things. As children, we check with mom and dad before we do something. Or, we look for approval while in the process of doing something, prepared to cease if we receive a glaring expression. 

Parents do not simply say no out of necessity, but also based on their preference. Because of this, we develop an instinct to look for displeasure in others based on our actions. We start looking to see if our decisions or actions are approved by others we look to for guidance. In other words, we are looking for permission.

This is wonderful for children learning right from wrong. It is stifling for adults who already know. 

We began a spring attendance campaign at church on Sunday. We are using a baseball theme and are calling it “Home Run for Jesus”. In the middle of the service, we served hot dogs and gatorade to everyone in attendance. Although I am sure something similar has been done before, it certainly is a rarity. An auditorium full of people were enjoying a snack while I was preaching on Abraham. It was  a great time. 

I bring it up because this is the very kind of thing that would make many “policemen” yell at me for not doing it right. When unusual things are attempted, there is always a chorus of people ready to say, “You can’t do that!”

The simple reply is, “I didn’t bother to ask your permission, because I don’t need it.”

Who is holding you back?