Seeking People's Approval

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: November 4, 2024

Scripture: "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." — Galatians 1:10 (ESV)

Devotional Thoughts

Human beings are often wired with an inner desire for validation. We crave the nods of approval, the affirmation that we matter, and the applause that affirms our worth. In today’s world, these approval-seeking tendencies are amplified through social media, where every like, comment, or share is a validation of who we are—or so it seems. The truth is, we easily fall into the trap of thinking our value is measured by others' opinions.

There’s a deep sense of longing within each of us for connection and belonging. We yearn for others to acknowledge us, to affirm our worth. But when we make people's approval the basis of our sense of self-worth, disappointment often lurks just around the corner. Even those closest to us—family, friends, coworkers—can let us down, knowingly or unknowingly. The validation we receive from others can never be constant, and tying our value to it will only leave us feeling empty.

Paul’s words to the Galatians remind us that if we are seeking human approval, we are not truly living as servants of Christ. He understood that while people's opinions can be comforting, they are also fleeting. God’s love and approval, on the other hand, are unchanging. When we live for God's approval, we can rest in the assurance of His constant and unwavering love for us. We are reminded that God sees us in all our flawed humanity, yet He calls us His own—loved and accepted without conditions.

Practical Reflection

Take a moment to reflect on whose approval you’re striving for today. Is it a colleague, a friend, or maybe even strangers on social media? Ask yourself, Would I be willing to make a choice that honors God, even if it disappoints others? Shifting your focus from the approval of people to the approval of God may not be easy, but it is the only way to find true peace. Imagine how different your life could be if you centered it on the love and affirmation of God instead of the applause of others.

Jesus Himself did not seek human approval. He lived to fulfill His Father's will, even when it meant being misunderstood, mocked, and rejected. The freedom He experienced in doing so is available to us too. When we choose to live for God’s approval, we discover a greater sense of purpose and belonging that is not subject to the ever-changing opinions of others.

Closing Thoughts

Remember, human approval is fleeting, but God’s approval is eternal. When we seek God's validation above all else, we experience a peace that goes beyond understanding and a love that will never fail us. Let your worth be defined by the One who created you, who knows you completely, and who loves you unconditionally.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I confess that I often seek the approval of others to feel valued. Help me remember that my worth is not defined by human opinions but by Your unchanging love. Give me the courage to live for Your approval alone, even when it means standing apart from the crowd. Remind me daily that Your love for me is more than enough. In Jesus' name, Amen.