Seeking approval is a theme that resonates throughout the Bible, reflecting the human desire for validation and acceptance. This pursuit can be directed towards God or towards other people, and the Scriptures provide guidance on the appropriate focus of our desire for approval.

Approval from God

The Bible emphasizes that seeking approval from God should be the primary aim of a believer's life. In Galatians 1:10, the Apostle Paul writes, "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." This verse underscores the importance of prioritizing God's approval over human approval. The believer's ultimate goal is to live a life pleasing to God, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 2:4: "We speak not to please men, but God, who examines our hearts."

The pursuit of God's approval is closely linked to obedience and faithfulness. 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." This passage highlights that faith is foundational to gaining God's approval, and it is through faith that believers align their lives with His will.

Approval from Others

While the Bible acknowledges the natural human tendency to seek approval from others, it warns against making this the primary focus. Proverbs 29:25 cautions, "The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high." This proverb illustrates the danger of prioritizing human approval over divine approval, as it can lead to compromise and spiritual peril.

Jesus Himself addressed the issue of seeking human approval in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:1, He warns, "Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." This teaching encourages believers to examine their motives and ensure that their actions are driven by a desire to honor God rather than to gain the praise of others.

Balancing Approval

The Bible does not entirely dismiss the value of human approval, especially when it aligns with godly principles. In Romans 14:18, Paul writes, "Whoever serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men." This suggests that when believers live in accordance with God's will, they may naturally earn the respect and approval of others. However, this should be a byproduct of a life devoted to God, not the primary objective.

Furthermore, the early church provides examples of leaders who were well-regarded by their communities. Acts 6:3 describes the selection of the first deacons, noting that they were "men of good repute, full of the Spirit and wisdom." This indicates that a good reputation among others can be valuable, provided it stems from a life of integrity and faithfulness to God.

Conclusion

In summary, the Bible teaches that seeking approval is a natural human inclination, but it must be rightly directed. Believers are called to prioritize God's approval above all else, ensuring that their actions and motives align with His will. While human approval can be beneficial, it should never supersede the desire to please God.