I’m not a fan of a specific football team in general but I love it when England play in the World Cup or the Euros.  Even though history tells us that they will keep us hoping and dreaming for a win but eventually not quite make it, we cheer them on, hoping that this will be the year they become the ultimate champions.  

I really like the captain, Gareth Southgate and think he’s done a great job in managing and coaching the team over the past 8 years.  It’s certainly not an easy job and you’re so open to the criticism of the whole country.  I found it very interesting to watch the reactions of the fans and commentators throughout the competition.  Early on, when the England team weren’t playing their best, many onlookers were quick to criticise the manager.  I heard phrases like “it’s time Southgate resigned”,  “he’s tactically inept” and “it’s now or never for Gareth”.  Several matches later when England were doing well, we were hearing comments like “Southgate is a genius”, “He’s one of the best!”  When England lost the final the comments were back to being negative and scathing.  

We can’t live our lives based on people’s opinions of us and we will NEVER be able to please everyone.  People’s opinions and criticisms change like the wind and turn on the tide and we should never feel we have to change in order to change their minds.  Often being a ‘people pleaser’ earlier in my life, I have been very mixed up at times, trying to make people happy and trying to get them to see the real me…to see my heart and hope they see it’s genuineness.  

There is only one perfect constant that exists and He loves us completely.  His love for us or opinion of us doesn’t change with how we perform.  We never have to earn it. The way He feels about us never diminishes if we fail or if we mess up.  It doesn’t change with the seasons or increase because we’ve impressed.  His love for us is ABSOLUTE no matter what.   If you are feeling lost or hurt because you feel misjudged, criticised or misunderstood, press into God the Father.  Turn to Him in your heart and listen for His beautiful whispers or affirmation. 

“The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” Psalms 118:6 NLT

He is the One who knows you and can see your heart.  He champions you no matter where you’re at and always wants the best for you.   Let Him sing over you and drown out the voices of accusers and critics with His love.  

“The LORD your God wins victory after victory and is always with you. He celebrates and sings because of you, and he will refresh your life with his love.” Zeph 3:17 (CEVUK)