How can we seek God's commendation in our daily lives? Anchoring Verse “For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” — 2 Corinthians 10:18 What God’s Commendation Is—and Isn’t - It is the Lord’s verdict, not human applause. - It is rooted in the hidden motives of the heart, not just outward results (1 Corinthians 4:5). - It reflects His perfect standards revealed in Scripture, never shifting cultural measures. Pursuing the Lord’s Approval, Not Self-Promotion - Shift the audience of your heart. Ask, “Would this choice delight my Father?” (Galatians 1:10). - Cultivate humility. “Humble yourselves…that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:5-6). - Let faith drive obedience. “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). Daily Practices That Draw His “Well Done” 1. Walk in integrity. - Speak truth, keep promises, reject compromise (Proverbs 11:3; Psalm 19:14). 2. Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly (Micah 6:8). - Treat each person as an image-bearer, especially the vulnerable. 3. Be a doer of the Word (James 1:22). - Move from Bible reading to Spirit-empowered action, however ordinary. 4. Serve wholeheartedly where you are (Colossians 3:23-24). - Laundry, spreadsheets, homework—all become worship when done “for the Lord.” 5. Steward gifts quietly. - Use time, abilities, and resources for kingdom good without broadcasting it (Matthew 6:1-4). 6. Endure with faithfulness. - Finish small assignments well; bigger ones may follow (Matthew 25:21). Guarding Against Self-Commendation - Watch internal bragging: silently taking credit before God is still pride. - Resist comparison. Others’ applause can inflate or deflate; the Lord’s verdict is steady. - Keep accountability—trusted believers who point you back to Christ’s standard. Encouragement for the Journey God’s commendation is not a distant dream but a daily possibility. Walk by faith, saturate each decision with His Word, and serve for His eyes alone. In due time, the same Savior who sees in secret will say, “Well done.” |
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