What does Psalm 75:6 teach about seeking approval from God, not man? Setting the Scene Psalm 75 was written by Asaph to remind God’s people that the LORD governs every rise and fall. Verse 6 focuses that lens: “For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west, nor out of the desert.” The Heart of Verse 6 • “Exaltation” (promotion, lifting up) is God’s prerogative. • Mentioning “east,” “west,” and “desert” sweeps the compass: no human region or power can manufacture true honor. • The implication is clarified in v. 7: “God is the Judge: He brings down one and exalts another.” People are instruments at best; the Author of advancement is the LORD Himself. Key Truths About Approval • God—not geography, connections, or circumstances—decides who is elevated. • Seeking man’s applause is futile, because man cannot grant lasting status or security. • By literal testimony of Scripture, approval hinges on God’s righteous judgment, not on fluctuating human opinion. How This Shapes Our Daily Living • Measure success by faithfulness, not popularity. If God promotes at His time, we can serve without scrambling for recognition. • Silence the craving for validation on social media, at work, or even in ministry; the only “well done” that counts is the one spoken by the Master (Matthew 25:21). • Replace anxiety about being overlooked with confidence in God’s perfect timing (1 Peter 5:6). • When others are promoted, rejoice instead of comparing; the same Sovereign hand that lifted them holds our future (Psalm 37:7). Supporting Scriptures • 1 Samuel 2:7–8 — “The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts.” • Proverbs 29:25 — “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” • Galatians 1:10 — “Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? … If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” • James 4:10 — “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” Psalm 75:6 turns our eyes away from human gatekeepers and fixes them on the true Source of promotion. Rest there, serve there, and let God be the One who lifts you up. |
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