We all crave approval and frankly, as humans, we all need approval. We need our parents to say I believe in you or I’m proud of you. When we accomplish something, we look to those in authority over us for affirmation: well done, good show sport, smashing work. Well at least that is what they would say if they are British. For children, the pride of a parent is maybe the most motivating factor for hard work and achievement. When that approval is missing in their life, it leaves a tremendous void and causes psychological damage.
That desire for approval is natural and God placed that desire in us. That desire will never leave us, but Paul says in Romans 2:29…
No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people
Notice something. The desire for approval doesn’t change, rather the person to whom the affirmation is requested changes. We still want approval from our father. The difference is, once Jesus Christ comes inside your heart, the transformation that takes place, changes who you see as your father.
As a test of your true heart condition, evaluate your motivation for ministry. What brings you more joy: the recognition from friends, supervisors, or family or the honor of serving God. Grace will give you a hunger for God’s approval, self-righteousness will cause you to desire man’s praise.
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