What if the praise you’re chasing is quietly pulling you away from the purpose God has for you? We start to seek approval by others at an early age — wanting to be recognized in class, helping dad wash the car, or hearing “nice hit” from the football coach.
Unfortunately, as we mature, our focus can shift from wanting to please those close to us, to looking for approval from our Heavenly Father.
We raise our hands when help is needed, setting up the chairs and tables for the upcoming men’s breakfast, even though we were trashed from a busy week at work. We’re offering to lead a home group or Bible study because the sign-ups appear to be stalling out. We hear the parking team is short a member, and we’re out there rain or shine. Are the men in church quietly suffering from an “approval addiction?” Deep down, are some men still trying to gain their dad’s approval — or God’s?
Churches may unintentionally be replicating worldly approval systems: with platform assignments, focusing on certain people’s gifting, overemphasized recognition, and even how “godly” a person may appear. Men are feeling pressured to earn God’s favor through church busyness, volunteering, or spiritual hustle. God’s heaven is not filled with thunderous applause but quiet rest.
Why is it that we want to feel more important than the other guy? Why does every race have to end in a podium finish? Can we enjoy being part of a team even if we don’t win the season? The need to compete within each man is a powerful force. We learn that in Genesis 4, God’s disapproval of Cain’s gift causes him to rise up against his brother, Abel.
Men, we must resist convincing ourselves that we’re “doing it for God,” as if He cannot bring His plan for this world to a successful conclusion without our assistance.
God never designed our worth to hang on the opinions of others. He already settled that question at the cross.
Scripture
“for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the
glory that comes from God.”
— John 12:43 (ESV)
This verse hits hard because it’s still true today. The people in Jesus’ time weren’t villains — they were ordinary men trying to navigate cultural pressure and public image. But somewhere along the way, they began valuing man’s approval more than God’s. Sound familiar?
Jesus didn’t look for a stage life. In fact, He often withdrew from the crowds. His mission wasn’t popularity — it was obedience. Even when the cheers turned into jeers, He stayed focused on the Father’s voice.
So, why do we measure our worth by the noise around us instead of the still, sure whisper of our Creator?
Application
There’s nothing wrong with recognition. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to do your best. There’s nothing wrong with being in the spotlight. God wired us for relationships and feedback. I wish I had the gift of encouragement more than I do.
The world’s applause is inconsistent. It depends on performance, popularity, and timing. God’s approval doesn’t waver. We don’t earn it — it’s given freely in Christ.
Let that sink in.
God’s not shaking His head when we mess up. He never second-guesses or withholds His love. He’s there when we struggle. He’s on our side whether success or failure comes.
It’s easy to spiritualize success. We tell ourselves we’re doing it “for the Lord,” but deep down, we’re looking sideways to see who’s clapping. We quote verses in meetings and post Scripture online, but if our heart’s aim is to impress, we’ve missed the point.
The cure isn’t isolation or false humility. It’s realignment. It’s asking ourselves why we’re doing what we’re doing — and who we’re doing it for.
Today’s Challenge: change your focus
Take 10 honest minutes today to speak to God. Just real talk between you and God.
Ask yourself:
- Am I looking around to see who’s looking?
- Am I striving for people’s acceptance instead of His?
- Are my motivations pure when I serve at church?
Then pray this:
“Father, I’ve looked for worth in the wrong places. I’ve chased the crowd when I should’ve been resting in You. Remind me today that I am already loved, already accepted, and already secure in Christ. Teach me to live for Your applause alone.”
Final Thought
Living for applause is exhausting. Living for God’s glory is freeing. Don’t trade eternal affirmation for temporary attention. Are those dozens of followers on your favorite social platform real friends? Crowds move on. God never will.
This week’s step: Identify one area of your life where you’ve been chasing approval — from work to ministry to social media. Pause. Let God’s affirmation be enough. Serve, speak, or act this week in a way that’s not for applause but for obedience.
Snag this print-friendly version for your next men’s breakfast or Bible study.
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