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My name is Julia, and I crave acceptance.
In high school, I always wanted to be liked. I went out of my way to get good grades, bake treats for the class and win approval.
I wanted people:
to appreciate me,
to turn to me for advice and
to need me in their lives.
My happiness came from feeling accepted. But no matter how much I was included, it was never enough. The idea that someone might keep wanting me around seemed impossible.
In college, my world changed drastically. I was no longer around a supportive family or friends. I moved away from what was familiar and into a new city with new people.
I joined an organization on campus called Student Life. I started going to church and became interested in exploring the Bible with new friends.
For the first time, I realized how much I craved acceptance. I began to understand that the motivations I had for helping others were actually coming from a deep longing to be understood and accepted for who I was.
As I studied the Bible with my new friends, I discovered more about myself and more about a man called Jesus. I learned Jesus loves all of us no matter our race, our past, our secrets or our fears.
My change in perspective wasn’t instantaneous. In fact, it’s taken me a long time to believe that someone could accept me even though I mess up every day. But now I know that I don’t have to change to be accepted.
Life isn’t always easier as a follower of Jesus; I still get upset and hurt quite easily. And I still desire acceptance. But I no longer seek this approval from others, because I’ve already found it.
My name is Julia. I crave acceptance, and I’ve found it in Jesus.
Want to know how you can receive Jesus’ acceptance, too?
What’s your story? Did you become a Christian through Cru or any ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ? If so, tell us more at stories@cru.org.
Feeling valuable can influence your emotions, decisions and mental well being, so finding your value in things that last is important. Are the things you find your worth in satisfying you?
Sign up for our email series to learn more about placing your value in things that are truly satisfying.
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