Aesop said, "Please all and you will please none."
Who's approval do you live for? Who are you trying to please?
Friends? Family? Boss? Yourself?
This week a bunch of us have been at the Equip Conference feasting on God's word and being reminded of its power to transform hearts and lives. Most of us spent the week looking closely at a small section of 2 Timothy 2.
A key verse in that section was 2 Timothy 2:15,
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."
There was lots to learn in this passage but I was challenged to think about who's approval I am seeking. Am I seeking the approval of men or of God? Am I most concerned about pleasing others or about pleasing God?
And how do I gain God's approval?
Well firstly it is only by his grace in the gospel. Being mercifully washed clean by the blood of Jesus is the only way God approves of anyone.
But now as I live as his follower, I seek to teach and live out the Bible faithfully... that's the way we're approved by God and useful in his kingdom.
Also, just a quick note that church is on again this week at the usual times and locations. I look forward to seeing you there!
Grace & peace,
Andrew
eNews - 7th January 2023