What steps can we take to prioritize God's approval over man's praise? Foundation Scripture “Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for that is how their fathers treated the false prophets.” (Luke 6:26) Why the Applause of People is a Snare • John 12:43 – “For they loved praise from men more than praise from God.” • Proverbs 29:25 – “The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is set securely on high.” • Galatians 1:10 – “If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Every time Scripture warns about man-pleasing, it pairs the habit with danger, deception, and slavery. God’s Word always speaks with accuracy and authority; therefore, treating these warnings literally protects the soul. Practical Steps to Live for God’s Approval • Examine motives in the light of Scripture – Psalm 139:23-24 invites God to search the heart. – Bring goals, words, and plans before Him each morning and evening, asking whether each one seeks His glory or human applause. • Saturate the mind with truth – Romans 12:2 commands transformation by renewing the mind. – Daily reading, memorization, and meditation recalibrate the inner compass away from public opinion and toward divine pleasure. • Cultivate the fear of the Lord through prayer – Isaiah 66:2 describes God’s gaze resting on the one who trembles at His Word. – Pray specifically for a deeper awareness of His holiness until earthly applause grows faint. • Practice secret obedience – Matthew 6:1-4 urges giving, praying, and fasting “in secret,” unseen by others, with the Father rewarding openly. – Look for ways to serve—writing notes, giving anonymously, interceding silently—where no human compliment can reach. • Welcome opposition and misunderstanding without retaliation – 1 Peter 2:23 shows Christ committing Himself to the righteous Judge. – When criticism comes, thank God for the reminder that ultimate vindication lies with Him, not in popular opinion. • Fellowship with God-focused believers – Hebrews 10:24-25 calls for mutual encouragement toward love and good deeds. – Choose friends who speak Scripture, not flattery, and who value faithfulness over fame. • Work for an eternal wage – Colossians 3:23-24: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole heart, as for the Lord and not for men… it is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Keeping the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:9-10) in view anchors daily tasks to everlasting reward. • Keep a gratitude record addressed to God alone – List each success or compliment, then turn it into thanksgiving: “Not to us, O Lord, but to Your name give glory” (Psalm 115:1). – Redirecting praise vertically trains the heart to remain God-centered. • Imitate the pattern of Jesus – John 5:30: “I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.” – Following the Lord means adopting His singular passion—to please the Father—regardless of public reaction. Living Out Luke 6:26 Today The world measures worth by likes, followers, and applause. Scripture measures worth by faithfulness. Take these steps daily, relying on the Spirit’s enabling power, and the grip of human praise loosens. God’s smile becomes enough, and His “Well done” outweighs every earthly cheer. |
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