From the time we are infants, we recieve praise for the good things we do.
First roll over, sitting up on our own, standing up, taking first steps, and using the big kid potty just to name a few of the achievements we accomplish at young ages that merit praise and a pat on the back.
As we get older we still accomplish things and stll expect the same praise and congrats.
In kindergarten and elementary school, earning gold stars for good behavior was a huge deal!!
As we got older....there was allowance for doing chores and special gifts and privileges for getting on the A honor roll.
It's clear to see that from a young age, human beings are wired desire approval.
And that continues into adult hood.
Employee of the month, promotions, and raises at work are just a couple examples of adults receiving pats on the backs for good work. It's a way that an employer says, "I'm proud of you for all the hard work you put into this company and I want to recognize you for it."
On the flip side, the same people that can be proud of you and praise you at one point in time....can be disappointed in you and scold you at another point in time.
As a young kid it's stuff like hitting and biting.
And as a teen/adult it could be lying and cheating.
Having privileges taken away. Being lectured. Or even getting fired from a job. It's all ways of saying "I don't approve of your behavior, and I will not tolerate it."
Ask anyone of any age which they prefer and it will most likely be anonymous that approval is enjoyed a lot more than disappointment,
So in an effort to remain in the approval of others we do what ever it takes to please them. Sometimes to the point of physically and emotionally exhausting ourselves. And sometimes we become so focused on it that we find ourselves obsessed because we fear losing that approval (and ultimately that person's love).
We kiss butt, we try extra hard in our duties, and we go above and beyond what is asked of us to hear those 4 prized words, "I'm proud of you."
We sometimes get so caught up though in trying to please fellow humans that we place pleasing God on the back burner,
Just as humans have set in place certain expectations for other humans, God has set in place certain expectations for us to follow.
And when we place the approval of others on a higher pedestal than the approval of God, we can find ourselves in a dangerous situation.....especially if the task required to gain the approval of a fellow man contradicts the laws of the Lord.
The Bible makes it clear that all of his children are to be witnesses to His name and to spread the Gospel to those all over the world. And id we are faithful to follow through in the things God commands of us, we will one day be able to hear Him say to us "Well done thou good and faithful servant".
If you ask me, to hear Christ call me "good and faithful" would be the best approval of all.
To have the Lord of everything pat you on the back and say, "I'm proud of you. Thank you for obeying my commands." is the best form of approval anyone could ever have!
Don't get me wrong. Human approval is much desired and greatly appreciated. But don't let it consume your life and don't make it your number one goal.
There are more important things in life than earthly gold stars and thumbs up.
Don't lose yourself trying to please others. Self approval is just as important. If people are proud of you, but you are miserable....what good has really been achieved?
And always, ALWAYS keep God first.
Do not look for approval except for the consciousness of doing your best.
Spanking and verbal criticism have become, to many parents, more important tools of child rearing than approval.
Courage, not compromise, brings the smile of God's approval.
People striving for approval from others become phony.
Live....Laugh....Love
Until Next Time,
Racheal <3
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