Seeking God's Approval in Life

The Spirit defines the meaning of "success" in a Christian's life; not feeling or feedback.

One is slave to the one he seeks approval from.

While we can understand how riches could become a trap for the rich young man who couldn't follow Jesus, and how bad affections could mutilate the heart of Herod from refusing to accept Jesus, there is one other group that Jesus sternly rebuked several times for their slavery to a master that stood against Christ. They were the religious leaders of the day and were reproved for seeking the approval and honor of men. He told them

John 5:44 "How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God?"

They were slaves to humans and thus were prevented from serving God. The Bible tells us clearly "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the LORD. "(Jer 17:5)

But Jesus laid an example for us. When many people responded to Him after seeing His miracles, the Gospel records

John 2:23 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did.
John 2:24 But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men,
John 2:25 and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man.

Jesus sought to please His Father. He came and lived to fulfill His will. And, it is His desire that we follow Him in doing so.

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

When He returns He should be able to say about us

Matthew 25:21 "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'

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