Joy of Approval

Every child wants to feel the approval of their parents; even as adults, you still might long for acceptance. You were created to be delighted in. Every part of you is woven together by a God who loves you and wants you to experience his love in tangible ways. Your desire for acceptance and approval is part of you. What really matters is where you go to find that acceptance. You will only be truly satisfied when you look to God for approval.

It’s not uncommon to look at God as though he is constantly disappointed. This feeling of rejection can lead you to turn away from him even when his grace and mercy beckon you to come closer. You might fear that he is bothered by your actions or let down by your poor choices. In reality, God cares more about your heart than he does the little rules you follow. While it is good to live in a way that is pleasing to him, there is no need to be enslaved by a list of requirements. Your obedience to him is intended to be built upon a foundation of mercy and grace.

When you have followed God for a long time, certain behaviors can become almost synonymous with your faith. As a Christian, you must carefully dance your way through the balance of living to honor him and knowing that your actions don’t validate your salvation. The key to this dance is having confidence in God’s consistent approval of you. There is nothing you can do to lessen his acceptance of you. It is solidified because of what Jesus has done. When he laid his life down for you, he secured your freedom for all eternity. Through Jesus, you have the approval of your heavenly Father. When he thinks of you, he smiles. You are always on his mind, and he is not disappointed in you.