(Sent out by Fellowship of Christian Athletes)
Who's Cheers Are You Listening To?
Ready: "Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise from men more than praise from God."
—John 12:43
Set: Is God's praise enough for you? It is a strange day, age, and culture we live in as Christians trying to please God. All of the "high places" in our culture are dominated by a performance driven mentality. Whether it's athletics, music, media, academics, or government to name a few, there is an overwhelming focus on the approval of others that permeates this generation's definition of success. It seems that if something is to be deemed "successful" it must first pass the test of "what others think".
What is success? Is it excelling at all costs? Is it reaching the bottom line or simply winning? God says no. Is it possible to be victorious and still fail? God says yes. I Samuel 16:7 says, "Man looks on the outward appearance but God looks at the heart." Outwardly we may be winning championships, winning friends, and "raking in the big bucks", however, God, though it all, is wanting to see if we are living our lives for Him, His desires, His approval. It is a very freeing thing when you live life with this revelation. If you ask Him God will show you the places where you are still counting on what others are saying and thinking. In order to live our lives in a way that loves God and makes the deepest impact for Him we must respond by living our lives only for His glory and approval.
Don't allow yourself to be manipulated by the systems of this world any longer. Many people will be successful in this world yet fail in eternity. Ask God for a revelation of who He really is. Once you see Him the approval or disapproval of others will pale in comparison. Proverbs 29:25 calls the fear of man a trap. By the grace of God we can be freed from this trap and released into a life of success based on God's standards.
Go: 1. When you are really honest can you say that God's approval is all you are
seeking in every area of your life?
2. Have you asked God to reveal the areas where you are still embracing the praises of man over the praises of God?
3. Have you taken the first step toward a freeing relationship with Jesus by receiving Him as Lord and Savior?
Workout: Matthew 6:33
Acts 5:1-11
Philippians 3:1-11