“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10

Charles Spurgeon once said, “I fear some men would sooner be damned than be laughed at.” As I’ve shared the Gospel over the years, I can see that this is often the case. I’ve talked with individuals who understand the Good News, they would not argue that the Bible is true, and they’ve seen the life change in those who have come to Jesus. However, they are still hindered from giving their lives to Christ because it is simply not something that is acceptable in their family or circle of friends. They are afraid of looking foolish or naïve in the eyes of those around them. What an incredibly sad reason to miss out on an intimate relationship with the God of all creation!

With that being said, however, it is equally foolish for a Christian to seek the approval of men instead of God. If your old self has died with Christ (Romans 6), then the approval of men should mean nothing to you. So, it is vital for us to take very seriously any inconsistency between what we say we believe in our hearts and what we actually confess with our mouths. Do you proudly confess your faith in front of brothers and sisters in Christ while keeping it a secret with those outside of Christ in order to win their approval? If so, you must stop and ask yourself, “Am I living to please Christ or please man? Am I a servant of Christ or a servant of my own ego?”

Almighty God, we thank You and praise You for accepting us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We recognize that You are pleased with us only because of what Jesus has done. Give us the wisdom, strength, and conviction to boldly proclaim that message every day in every situation. And as we do, break down the egos of those around us so they may see that Your approval is the only approval that truly matters today and on into eternity.