The Only Approval That Matters

Hola Amigos,

Have you ever found yourself struggling to please those around you? You please one group of people, but not the other, thus leaving you feeling frustrated. You're frustrated that you can't give everyone what they want or need, and frustrated that your own desires get lost in the mix. If you're anything like me, then you have felt one, or all, of these emotions at some point. But the good news I came to give you, is that this doesn't have to be the case anymore!

Are you a people pleaser?

I never used to see myself as a people pleaser, but I've been told on many occasion that I've got some qualities that align with that of a people pleaser. People pleasers tend to draw self worth from the approval of others, respond quickly with a 'sorry' even if it isn't their fault, and often times don't have free time for themselves. This list, of course, is not exhaustive, but you get my drift. The great thing, though, is that when you're a Christian, a servant of Christ, you don't have to worry about people pleasing. The only approval to be sought after is the Lord's (and unlike man, you can actually gain His approval).

You'll always fall into a trap when you seek to please man, but God's ways are sure; they are perfect (Proverbs 29:25). And here's the big key - God is the one who designed us, it is Him we serve, thus it should be His approval we seek. Isaiah 2:22 puts it plainly. It says, "stop regarding man in whose nostrils is breath, for what account is he?" Amigos, whatever we do, it should be done for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:23). And the thing is -- this doesn't mean to totally disregard other humans. When you follow the King of the universe, everything else falls into place. He is perfect, His will is perfect; when we follow Him, we cannot go wrong. You'll know what to say yes to and what to say no to. You'll know when to take action, and when to allow others to take action. You'll know the difference between helping others as God commanded, and helping others so they will like you. Remember, other people matter, but it is not their approval that you should be seeking.

So, what now?

Before saying yes to another request, deciding to head a ministry, or volunteering to do everything on the project to-do list, take time and ask yourself these questions:

Will this bring God glory?

Have I asked God what to do?

Am I the one that God desires to carry out this action?

What is my motive for saying yes?

Will saying yes hinder my ability to tend to what God has already assigned to me?

I hope this helped any people pleasers reading this post! Save these questions to prevent yourself from burnout, and understand that God's approval is the only one that matters. Don't be afraid to even pray for Him to help you seek Him; He's longing to be your #1.

For others who might be reading, share with someone who you think will benefit, so that we can all prosper!

Hablamos pronto,

Jesseñia Melise 😘