Seeking God’s Approval Over the World’s Approval By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: 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.”
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Introduction:
In the world today, many believers start their journey with sincere hearts and a deep desire to follow God. However, as time goes on, they are lured into seeking the approval of the world. This drift towards worldliness not only grieves the heart of God but also diminishes their spiritual vitality. As disciples of Christ, we must be cautious not to trade the eternal approval of God for the fleeting applause of men. This sermon challenges us to examine our priorities, renew our commitment to God, and steadfastly refuse the seduction of worldliness.
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The Danger of Worldly Approval
Scripture Reference: James 4:4 “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
The desire to gain acceptance from the world is a subtle yet destructive trap. It starts with small compromises that gradually lead believers away from God. When we prioritize the opinions of men over obedience to God, we are drawn into spiritual adultery. God, who has called us to be holy, is grieved when His people forsake Him for the fleeting vanities of the world.
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The Deception of Conforming to the World
Scripture Reference: 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.”
Many believers convince themselves that conforming to the world will make them relatable and help win others to Christ. Yet, the truth is that the world has nothing of eternal value to offer. Instead of winning the world for Christ, such compromise leads to spiritual erosion. True transformation and effectiveness in God’s kingdom come from a renewed mind that aligns with His will, not the world’s standards.
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God’s Standard Remains Unchanged
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Throughout generations, God’s requirement for His people has remained constant: unwavering love and obedience to Him. While societal norms and trends shift, God’s standards of righteousness and holiness do not change. Believers are called to forsake all, including worldly approval, to follow Christ wholeheartedly. When we deviate from God’s path, we open ourselves to His discipline and the consequences of rebellion.
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The Consequences of Seeking Worldly Approval
Scripture Reference: 1 John 2:15-17 “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
The pursuit of worldly approval often leads to spiritual blindness, pride, and estrangement from God. Leaders and believers who fall into this trap mislead others, creating a ripple effect of deception and sin. When God’s people prioritize the world’s acceptance over His, they fail to represent His truth, bringing shame to His name and inviting His righteous judgment.
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Summary:
The desire for worldly approval is a dangerous distraction that robs believers of their spiritual purpose and integrity. God’s standard is clear: love Him above all else and remain faithful to His commands. While the world offers fleeting pleasures, they cannot compare to the eternal blessings of living in God’s will.
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Conclusion:
Let us reflect on our lives and identify areas where we may have sought the world’s approval over God’s. It is never too late to repent and realign ourselves with God’s purposes. The call to holiness is not optional; it is a requirement for those who desire to see God’s glory revealed in their lives.
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Call to Action:
Choose today to break free from the bondage of seeking worldly approval. Commit to walking in the fear of the Lord and upholding His standards in all areas of your life. Encourage others to do the same, pointing them to the eternal hope and peace found in Christ alone.
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Final Word of Encouragement:
God is faithful to those who remain steadfast in Him. Though the world may mock and reject us, remember that our ultimate reward comes from the Lord. As we seek His approval above all, He will guide us, strengthen us, and keep us under His protection. Stand firm in your faith, for the approval of God is worth more than anything this world can offer. Colossians 3:23-24 “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.”
