Whose Approval Matters?
Whose Approval Matters?
This is the Lord’s declaration. I will look favorably on this kind of person: one who is humble, submissive in spirit, and trembles at My word. (Isa. 66:2)
Compared to Others
Scripture doesn’t promise an easy life for everyone who follows Christ. What it does promise, though, is God’s approval when we reflect Him in our actions, attitudes, and motivations.
Stop and think about that for a second. God’s approval. You may be thinking, I’m a pretty nice guy. I treat people well. I work hard. I do good things. I’m even reading a devotional book right now! But are you just approving yourself based on a comparison with the people around you?
Compared to Scripture
Look at a few examples of who Jesus says is blessed (see Matt. 5:3–5):
- The poor in spirit. Are you self-sufficient, or do you go to (and rely on) God for everything? Do you go directly to Him when you need help?
- Those who mourn. Have you developed a tolerance for small sins like white lies, or do you really grieve when you see yourself acting outside of God’s will?
- The gentle. Do you have a right view of yourself in relation to God? Are you more self-confident than God-confident?
Bottom Line
Whose approval matters most to you? Reread the first eleven verses of Matthew 5, and let them challenge you.