Living Accepted In Christ
Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10
Throughout the New Testament, the Apostle Paul refers to himself as a servant of Christ, and mentions how he struggles, toils and strives with all of God’s strength and energy within him to bring believers to a maturity in Christ. (Colossians 1:28-29)
The level of commitment and diligence Paul walked in serves as both an inspiration and example for believers. He lived his life with unwavering devotion, yet throughout all he did, the motive of his heart was pure. He did not live to earn the approval of people, but lived for God. He knew that through Christ God had chosen him and he was already accepted in the Beloved. (Ephesians 1:4, Romans 15:7)
It’s a great danger whenever one falls into trying to “serve God” outwardly with an inward motive of needing the acceptance and approval of others. Those who do this will never receive what they are looking for, because total acceptance and satisfaction only comes through Christ.
It’s important to understand that what a believer does as service, does not determine their identity, but what Christ has done gives them their new identity as a son/daughter. Therefore, the new life in Christ should not be about doing things to try and be accepted. Rather, the new life in him should be lived from a place of already being accepted, so that everything a believer does is done in faith with a pure heart and correct motive.
Remember, God’s grace and Holy Spirit will be the empowering strength to help you live in victory.
Here’s some practical action steps you can take to help grow in this…
- Ask God to show you what areas of your life you’ve been seeking approval from others.
- If God reveals anything concerning this, acknowledge that it’s sin and confess it out so that you can receive God’s forgiveness and change your mind.
- Through prayer and fellowship with God, intentionally receive the truth that you have been accepted in Christ.
- Remind yourself constantly there is no freedom in seeking approval from others, and be on guard specifically in the areas you have struggled.
- Be intentional daily and make every effort to live with a strong “why” motive in your heart.