God's approval is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the divine favor and acceptance bestowed upon individuals, actions, or offerings that align with His will and righteousness. This concept is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating the standards by which God measures human conduct and the blessings that follow His approval.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, God's approval is often linked to obedience and faithfulness to His commandments. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:3-5 provides an early example: "So it came about in the course of time that Cain brought an offering to the LORD from the fruit of the ground. And Abel, on his part, also brought an offering—fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. And the LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but He had no regard for Cain and his offering." Abel's offering was accepted because it was given in faith and accordance with God's expectations, while Cain's was not.

The narrative of Noah further illustrates God's approval. In Genesis 6:8-9, it is written, "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. This is the account of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God." Noah's righteousness and obedience led to God's approval, resulting in his and his family's salvation from the flood.

The Law and the Prophets

The Mosaic Law provided a framework for living in a manner that would gain God's approval. Deuteronomy 28 outlines blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, emphasizing the importance of adhering to God's statutes. The prophets, too, called the people back to a life that would earn divine favor. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, God's approval is closely associated with faith in Jesus Christ. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Faith becomes the primary means by which believers receive God's approval, as exemplified by the heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11.

Jesus' own life and ministry provide the ultimate example of living in a manner that pleases God. At His baptism, God the Father expressed His approval, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). Jesus' perfect obedience and sacrificial death opened the way for believers to be justified and approved by God through faith.

Living to Please God

The apostolic writings encourage believers to live in a way that seeks God's approval. In Romans 12:1-2, Paul urges, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God."

The pursuit of God's approval involves a life of holiness, love, and service. In 1 Thessalonians 4:1, Paul writes, "Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us." This exhortation underscores the ongoing nature of seeking God's favor through a life that reflects His character and commands.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide a formulaic approach to gaining God's approval, it consistently points to a life of faith, obedience, and alignment with God's will as the path to divine favor. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, believers are called to live in a manner that pleases God, trusting in His grace and guidance.