As Unto The Lord

Daily Rays of Hope #51

Living for God's Approval, Not Man’s

Galatians 1:10 (NIV): "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."

In a world where validation often comes from likes, comments, and the approval of others, it’s easy to fall into the trap of seeking affirmation from people instead of God. But as believers, we are called to work as unto the Lord, not to man. When we shift our focus from pleasing people to serving God, we walk in freedom, purpose, and divine alignment.

Working as Unto the Lord

Our work, whether in ministry, business, or daily responsibilities, should be done with the mindset that we are serving God, not just fulfilling human expectations. Colossians 3:23-24 says: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

When we work as unto the Lord, we operate with integrity, diligence, and joy, knowing that our reward comes from Him. Even when others don’t recognize our efforts, God sees, and He honors those who are faithful.

Avoiding the Trap of People-Pleasing

Seeking man's approval can lead us away from God's will. It can cause us to compromise our values, stay silent when we should speak, or seek validation in places that will never satisfy us. Proverbs 29:25 warns: "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe."

Jesus Himself never lived for human approval. John 5:44 says: "How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?" He was more concerned with doing His Father’s will than gaining acceptance from people. We, too, must follow His example.

Seeking God First Brings Everything Else

When we prioritize God above all else, everything we need is added to us. Matthew 6:33 reminds us: "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Rather than striving for recognition, influence, or approval from people, our first priority should be to seek God. When we do, He aligns everything else—our relationships, career, finances, and purpose—according to His perfect plan.

Three Practical Ways to Seek God’s Will Daily

1. Spend Time in Prayer and the Word

   • Make it a daily habit to seek God’s guidance through prayer and Scripture. Ask Him to direct your steps and help you focus on pleasing Him above all else.

   • Psalm 119:105: "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

2. Check Your Motives Before Making Decisions

   • Before taking action, ask yourself: Am I doing this to honor God, or to gain approval from others?

   • 1 Thessalonians 2:4: "We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts."

3. Trust God for Promotion and Provision

   • Instead of striving for recognition, trust that God will open the right doors at the right time. When you remain faithful, He will elevate you according to His perfect will.

   • Psalm 75:6-7 (KJV): "For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another."

Living for God's approval brings peace, purpose, and fulfillment that human validation never can. Choose to seek Him first, trust His plan, and work as unto the Lord—because His reward is far greater than anything the world can offer.