"‘Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you…'” Isaiah 43:4a NIV
In life it can be so easy to seek affirmation and validation from external things without even realizing it. One time I was going through a break-up and I was on the phone processing with a friend. All I remember is her saying to me that I did not need that person’s validation. I didn’t even realize that’s what I was looking for in that moment!
For some of us, we desire approval from our jobs and managers. For others of us, we crave validation through relationships whether romantic, platonic, or familial. Or maybe we find validation in material things and possessions, or recognition of a job well done from our church leaders. All of us at some point in our lives have wanted praise from fellow humans.
The Bible records that the purpose of our good accomplishments is ultimately to bring God glory and draw others to Him (Matthew 5:16). It’s not about a pat on the back or trying to get into someone’s good graces or even move ahead in life. When we desire validation, we should receive it from God and not from people on earth.
Here are some things our number one fan and creator says about us that are worth remembering, reciting, or reading to remind us that all the affirmation and validation we need is found in the Lord:
I am made in the image of God. (Genesis 1:27)
He delights in me. (Zephaniah 3:17)
The fruit I produce brings great joy to my Father in heaven. (John 15:8)
God does not look at my outward appearance. He looks at my heart. (1 Samuel 16:7)
God forgives my wrongdoings and never remembers my sins. (Hebrews 8:12)
I am not afraid or discouraged because God is always with me and goes before me. (Deuteronomy 31:8)
God is for me and not against me. (Romans 8:31)
God’s plans for me are good. (Jeremiah 29:11)
God has given me unique gifts, talents, and strengths. (Romans 12:6)
I am fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14)
I am the apple of God’s eye. (Psalm 17:8)
When the Creator of the universe feels this way about us, the praises of humans pale in comparison. Don’t fall for the trap of seeking approval and validation from the people and things of this world. God is our number one fan and what He says about us is all that matters!
Reflection
Where have I been (un)intentionally seeking approval? Why does this validation matter to me? How can I replace earthly approval for God’s approval?
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for seeking human approval. Thank you for being my number one fan. You are the only validation and affirmation that I will ever need. Help me to believe what You say about me. Let it sink into my heart and let me carry what You say about me with me forever. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Photo by Prateek Katyal on Unsplash
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