Ps 90:17 And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful!
Our parents ingrain our need for approval. When we praise our children for a touchdown, a home-run, or tell them how proud we are of them, they feel approval and validation in their life. As we enter the workforce, we want our work to count. Being productive brings approval from others, especially our boss.
Yes, it is human nature to want approval. But if we only seek it from others who often failed to recognize our accomplishments, where does that leave us? We become disappointed in our lives, then discontent and unhappiness surface. Our unhappiness produces irritation and even anger. What do we do? Some change jobs, but after a while the rollercoaster starts again. We buy a new, better house or an extra car. Everything is better, or is it?
I heard a Preacher say, “If we care more about what others think of us than what God thinks of us, we will never truly understand his eternal plan.” He placed the desire for approval in our hearts, but not at the expense of heaven. Making the right choice in difficult situations can be daunting but when we follow God’s plan for our lives, he approves. Ask for his guidance. You may not get as many accolades now, but you will find a contentment and deep satisfaction in life. Also, loving and serving God assures us that our desire for approval will be satisfied in eternity.
Jena Kleinpeter 