Breaking Free: Choosing God's Approval Over People's Applause

Unsplash [Photo by Hussain Badshah]

"not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free." Ephesians 6:6-8 NKJV

Are you concerned about pleasing God than men or the other way around? This is a question we all have to ask ourselves from time to time. Many times I have asked myself that question when certain situations come up in my life. Friend, are you the type who is consumed with making others happy at the cost of your happiness? Are you the type that will compromise your beliefs or morals just to please your boss or colleagues in the workplace, or even a friend? If you have answered yes or maybe to any of these questions, then it is time for you to shift your focus from pleasing men to pleasing God.

Our utmost goal as believers is to please the Lord God who loves and accepts us for who we are because He created us in His image and after His likeness. He knows our flaws, our shortcomings and yet accepts us as we are. As God pleasers, our focus should be on doing the Father's will, serving others in the name of Jesus Christ and knowing that our labor of love shall never be in vain.

The Bible, in Hebrews 11:6, states that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Throughout scripture, there are instances of people prioritizing God's approval over human recognition, often at significant personal sacrifice. Examples include Noah, who adhered to God's guidance instead of succumbing to the corrupt society around him; Abraham, who left his home to follow God's call, relying on His promises; Daniel, who continued praying to God despite the risk of being thrown into the lions' den; and Peter, who courageously spread the gospel despite threats from religious authorities.

Prioritizing God in our lives is crucial because He remains by our side through both good and challenging times. As stated in Hebrews 13:5-6, "For God has said, 'I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.' So we can say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?'" People often let us down; those we strive to please daily may abandon us when difficulties arise. When they no longer see us as important, they might discard us instantly." Even those we love can disappoint us, but the Lord's promise is steadfast—He will neither fail nor abandon us.

Beloved, do not seek approval from people, as disappointment is inevitable regardless of your actions or words. In my youth, I believed that my identity was shaped by my friends, the schools I attended, my family background, and the neighborhood I lived in, leading me to seek validation from others to feel good about myself. As I grew as a Christian and a Woman, I realized that this was completely "nonsense." My identity is rooted in Christ, and the approval I seek is from God, not from any imperfect human like myself. Brother Paul expresses this clearly in Galatians 1:10: "For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ." You must understand that your worth comes from God, not human validation.

Now, it's crucial not to confuse pleasing people with helping or showing love to others. We should bless others through acts of goodwill as the Lord has instructed us, but it's essential to do so in a healthy way—serving with compassion and kindness and giving all the glory to God. In our daily interactions, whether at work, home, or in our communities, we should communicate in a healthy, loving, and productive manner that honors the Lord. As Scripture in Colossians 3:23 advises, "Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people."

Keep in mind that the Lord will provide you with an inheritance as your reward, and the Master you serve is Christ. In all our earthly endeavors and interactions with others, act as if you are doing it for the Lord, not for people. Strive to always please Him, as it is a truly wonderful feeling when God takes delight in us.

Friends, I encourage you today to stop trying to please others to the extent that you lose your sense of self and value. Make it a priority to put God first in your life and place your trust in Him rather than in people, as those you aim to impress might ultimately disappoint you. As stated in Psalm 118:8, it is better to trust in the LORD than to depend on man. Concentrate on pleasing God and seeking His approval by dedicating yourself to serving Him, wholeheartedly blessing others with your gifts, talents, time, and resources. Also, surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide support and hold you accountable.

Choose God's Approval today over People's Applause....

I do hope you have been blessed and empowered by this point. As always, I would love your feedback. Please leave your questions and comments in the comments section below.

I remains Yours in The Faith

Margaret (MKO)