Who's approval are you seeking?

Today's reading:  "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." Colossians 3:23-24


When I was a boy I used to enjoy sharing my artwork with family members and friends of mine. I liked the compliments and sometimes the encouragement. I often felt the need to please others, thinking that people would like me if I gained their approval. As I grew older so did this need to please and find approval. In some ways, as I reflect on my young adulthood to my mid-life now, that need for approval from others crippled me. Really, it stunted me in developing other important qualities in my life and attitudes towards others, and being able to make clear decisions on my own. Yet, all is not lost. What has been learned can be unlearned. 


Much has changed in my life in the last several years. For example, before I lost my job in 2007, I was working as a drafter in a civil engineering firm. We created residential design plans. In my office I learned that some people were quick to approve, and then others just dismissive or indifferent. I think to compensate for a certain lack of confidence I felt like I had to explain myself all of the time. It was part of that need to gain approval and avoid disapproval. It was part of that fear that I was going to do something wrong, and not good. Explaining myself really did not matter because people I worked with saw it as a weakness and not a strength, and I automatically lost favor with them. Did it really matter. No. On the other hand,I had my supervisors who I really felt I needed to please and do a good job. I wanted to hear the words, "well done." What had I been trying to gain? I think this is a question we all must ask when we work with other people. What is more important, approval from people or God?

Yet, it is important how we present ourselves to others because, as Christians we ought to work in such a way that God is glorified and our workmanship approved by Him. Anytime we work or do something we ought to do it for God, and through that shine a light in people's lives. If they see how God is working in our lives and our diligence, it won't be their approval that matters but their desire to know who Jesus is, who works in us.
 
Now, I am not saying it is wrong to have approval from others, but God's approval is more important. One of the things Jesus tells us is this: "Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me." Mark 8:34b. Luke says it a little differently. He quotes Jesus saying, "And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple." Luke 14:27 What does all of this mean? If you want to seek God's approval, I think it means learning to become obedient to the Word of God. It means putting aside your old life that you lived and following Jesus. You will find that when you follow Jesus, many who called you 'friend' may distance themselves from you. It might make you very unpopular to be around. It could get really lonely. Deny your "self", and accept Jesus' way.

Did you know that in Timothy, it says that to live a life that is quiet, filled with peace, godliness and reverence are things that are good in God's sight, and that He approves? (See 1Timothy 2:1-5) God desires this so that we can come to the saving knowledge of Jesus in our life. I have heard it said that you cannot please God if you are disobedient, so it is equally important to remain in Him. Jesus tells us that "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full* (*some translations use "complete".) John 15:10-11.

My prayer today is: Jesus, help me not to worry about pleasing people, but glorifying you through loving and serving people. Help me to do the things required of me without complaint, but with thanksgiving in my heart. Help me to continue abiding in your will and seek your Word. Help me to love those who are hard to love, and serve those who I might normally overlook. Help me to be diligent in matters of labor and compassionate through your love. In your name, Amen.


P.S.

This entry was not an easy one for me to write.