Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10, NIV

Madison stood with the other children, eager for the year-end performance to begin. Parents and grandparents filled the auditorium as the students prepared to enter, singing. But moments after we stepped into the room, our song was overtaken by Madison’s loud tears. Her teacher quickly led her away to be comforted, and the program continued. Later, I learned the reason for her distress: when Madison entered the room, she did not see her mother. In that moment, nothing else mattered. The performance, the audience, and the songs all faded in importance because the one person whose approval and presence she longed for seemed absent.

That experience stayed with me and made me wonder: How often do I enter my work seeking the approval of others in much the same way? I can look for affirmation from colleagues, administrators, parents, or even my own family. I can measure my worth by praise received or criticism avoided. Yet Paul’s words challenge me to ask myself a deeper question: Whose approval matters most? When my heart is anchored in pleasing people, I can become discouraged, defensive, or driven by pride. But when my desire is to honor Christ, I am free to teach, serve, and lead from a different place—one shaped by faithfulness rather than applause.

As the school year winds down, it is worth taking stock. Let’s ask ourselves: Are my motives rooted in gaining recognition, or in glorifying God? Am I working for human praise, or as a servant of Christ? 

The approval of others will always shift, but God’s pleasure rests on hearts that seek to serve Him sincerely. In the noise of expectations, may His voice be the one that matters most.

Dearest Lord, thank You for carrying us safely through this year. As we press toward the finish line, give us strength, wisdom, and the right perspective. Guard our hearts from seeking the approval of others above Your own. Help us serve faithfully, work wholeheartedly, and find our deepest satisfaction in pleasing You. Amen.

Copyright Shirley Wilson.  

Shirley is a retired Christian Educators member and a former board member of Christian Educators.