“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10
Seeking Divine Approval
In our lives, it is so easy to get caught up in seeking the approval of others. We often want to fit in and be accepted by our friends, family, or society. However, as Christians, we are reminded that our primary goal should be to gain the approval of God rather than that of people. This entails living a life that is aligned with God’s will, serving others, and standing firm in our faith. When we make the effort to please God, we find a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment that far exceeds any human validation. As a community, we can support one another in this calling, reminding ourselves of Christ’s teachings and the importance of living out our faith openly and joyfully.
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
1 Thessalonians 2:4
“On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:4
Proverbs 29:25
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” – Proverbs 29:25
Romans 8:31
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
John 12:43
“For they loved human praise more than praise from God.” – John 12:43
The Dangers of Approval-Seeking
When we focus too heavily on seeking approval from others, we might risk losing our way. This desire for validation can lead to compromising our values and beliefs. It’s important for us to recognize this behavior and guard ourselves against it. By surrounding ourselves with supportive friends who encourage our faith, we can develop strength against this temptation. As we cultivate a community that values faith over popularity, we grow in our confidence and are reminded that we are loved and valued by God just as we are.
Galatians 1:10
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10
Acts 5:29
“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!'” – Acts 5:29
Proverbs 1:10
“My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.” – Proverbs 1:10
Jeremiah 17:5
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord.'” – Jeremiah 17:5
1 John 2:15
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.” – 1 John 2:15
Confidence in Christ
When we put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ, we gain the confidence to be ourselves without fear of judgment. As believers, we find our identity in Him and no longer need human affirmation. It’s liberating to recognize that our worth comes from God alone. Together, as a community, we can encourage each other to embrace our God-given identities and confidently express our faith. This assurance allows us to act boldly in bringing love and hope to others without worrying about what they think of us.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
2 Corinthians 3:5
“Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.” – 2 Corinthians 3:5
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
The Call to Authenticity
Being authentic in our faith means living in truth rather than seeking to portray a version of ourselves that is appealing to others. When we live authentically, we allow God to shine through us, providing a genuine witness to who He is. It’s important that we encourage one another to shed any false facades. Together, we can create an environment where vulnerability is welcomed, and we learn that it’s okay to show our true selves – flaws and all. As we embrace our imperfections, we find comfort in the assurance that God loves us unconditionally.
2 Corinthians 1:12
“Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God.” – 2 Corinthians 1:12
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Galatians 6:4
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.” – Galatians 6:4
The Joy of Serving Others
When we focus less on gaining the approval of others, we can instead direct our attention toward serving and loving those around us. In doing so, we reflect Christ’s love and compassion. Serving others brings joy and fulfillment, as we live out the commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves. Together as a community, we can strive to create spaces of kindness and service, uplifting one another and spreading God’s light to those who need it most. Let us remember that it’s not about recognition but rather the joy that comes from loving others.
Mark 10:43
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” – Mark 10:43
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'” – Matthew 25:40
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Hebrews 6:10
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” – Hebrews 6:10
Finding Comfort in God’s Love
At times, we may feel lost and uncertain about our worth or the approval we seek from people. However, as believers, we can find comfort in the love God has for us. His approval is unwavering and unconditional. God always sees us as His precious children, deserving of love and grace. Together, we can remind one another of this truth and encourage each other to seek His presence first. In prayer and fellowship, we can find solace in His love and grace, leading us to a fulfilling existence rooted in divine approval rather than human validation.
Romans 8:39
“Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:39
Psalm 36:7
“How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” – Psalm 36:7
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6
Isaiah 43:4
“Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life.” – Isaiah 43:4
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these scriptures about seeking people’s approval, we remember that our true worth comes from God. Striving for human approval can sometimes lead us astray, but God’s love and acceptance remain constant. We find confidence and authenticity when we prioritize our relationship with Him over people’s opinions. It is in serving others and embracing our true selves that we can create a loving community that reflects Christ’s light. Let us encourage one another to remain aligned with God’s perspective, finding comfort in His everlasting approval.
We encourage ourselves to seek more inspiration in the Bible, such as friendship and approval or the significance of gaining the world and losing your soul. May we continue to grow together in faith and love.