What if we sought the praises of God, rather than the praises of man? Would our lives look different? Would our church look different? Would the community, our country, and our world, look different?
No doubt it would.
When I live for the praises of man – or approval of man – my focus shifts to that which can be seen with our eyes. Outward appearances matter more. What I look like, what I do with my time, what kind of hobbies I am involved in, my importance to the community, and my possessions all matter. If I am well thought of, mainly because I am tolerant or passive about everything, than people will think highly of me. I don’t correct others, but rather encourage whatever it is that they do.
When I think in this way, the words that stick out in my mind is “me.” What do you think about me? “I” want to be liked and accepted by “you.” Your opinion of me is all that really matters. In this mindset it is very easy to see why who I really am – who I was made to be – could get lost.
God sees the destruction that comes with living for the praises of man. It’s subjective. Changing from person to person. It includes both good and evil. The rubric is not consistent, but fluid.
God sees how we can get lost in that mess, and He advises us not to. He knows that the only one we should be seeking approval from is One whose ways are right, and true. He wants us to use the standard set by the Creator. He knows that in our humanness we will still fall short. So, as only a loving and perfect God would – He created a way for us to be made right with Him through the death of His Son, Jesus Christ.
God’s opinion of us is that of love and affection. God sees us as having great value and worth. God smiles at the design differences that He created within our very DNA. He knit us together with intentionality. He promises to never leave us or forsake us. He provides for our every need. He is a righteous redeemer. He promises to prepare a place for us to spend all eternity with Him.
Why, then, would I desire to seek praises elsewhere? Whose opinion should really matter?
God is not interested or stuck on our nationality. God is not limiting His followers based on outside appearances. God looks inside us – at the core of who we are. It is there that a changed heart, produced by the Spirit, dwells.
“Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that His kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?” (Romans 2:4) “No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by the Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people.” (Romans 2:29)
LORD, help us to seek to live in such a way that honors you. May we be more concerned about living holy lives that you approve of, rather than living for the approval of mankind who are stuck in their sinful nature. We want to be free. We want to be used by you to complete the purpose you designed us for. We want to increase in our intimacy and understanding of who you are. Open our eyes. Remind us of what is important. Reveal in us any areas that don’t align with your plan for us, and help us to be willing to address it. In Jesus name, amen.
Blessings!