“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 (ESV)
Devotion:
In Galatians 1:10, Paul speaks boldly about his allegiance: he seeks to please God, not man. For a follower of Christ, the temptation to earn the approval of others can be strong, especially in a culture that often opposes the ways of God. We, too, may feel pressured to compromise our beliefs or water down the truth to avoid offending others or to gain acceptance.
Yet Paul reminds us that serving Christ calls for courage and clarity. Pleasing God requires that we value His truth above the fleeting applause of others. In Luther’s time, he faced great opposition for his stance on the gospel. He experienced the struggle Paul describes but trusted in God’s approval over human favor. Through his example, we see that the life of faith isn’t easy, but it is blessed with a clear conscience and the deep peace that comes from living for God alone.
Reflection:
- Are there places in your life where you find yourself more concerned with others’ approval than God’s?
- How might God be inviting you to live boldly, with eyes fixed on His approval?
Prayer:
Gracious Father, strengthen me to live as a servant of Christ. Forgive me when I seek the approval of others over Yours. Help me to desire Your truth above all else, that I may live a life pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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