Approval

Galatians 1:10

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 the 1800s, when Verdi premiered his first opera in Florence, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. Verdi, the composer, stood in the shadows, his gaze fixed on one figure in the audience—the eminent Rossini. Verdi's heart longed for the nod of approval from this maestro. He cared not for the accolades of the crowd but sought the affirmation of the master musician alone.

Paul's words in Galatians 1:10 resonate deeply in our hearts, stirring questions about the motivations driving our actions. The apostle confronts the Galatian believers with a fundamental choice: are they seeking the approval of people or of God? He challenges them to consider whether their decisions are dictated by a desire for human praise or a devotion to serving Christ. The words ‘seeking the approval’ means to impress, to win over or to persuade.

It's natural to try to impress and win over others, seeking their approval and validation, but as the Gospel reminds us that our ultimate allegiance should be to serve and honor God rather than conforming to worldly standards. Like Verdi, many of us find ourselves navigating a world that demands conformity and validation from others. We may feel pressured to conform to societal norms, seeking affirmation through likes, shares, or applause. Yet, Paul's message reminds us that our primary allegiance should be to God. When we prioritize seeking His approval above all else, we align our lives with His will and purpose.  Let's not conform to worldly standards but seek transformation through God's will, knowing that His approval is the ultimate validation.

Romans 12:2

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.