Day 220
Ezra 7:1-8:20; 1 Corinthians 4:1-21; Psalm 30:1-12; Proverbs 20:28-30
God Is Our Judge
As human beings, it seems our nature is to do things to be recognized. We care so much about the approval of others. This starts early in our development as children. It’s a constant desire for kids to be accepted as part of the “popular” crowd. So our behavior changes. We simply want to be seen and acknowledged. This continues into our adulthood. Whether it’s in social situations, in the workplace, or even at home – we want approval.
This is not, however, what God desires for us. He is the ultimate judge of our actions. He desires for us to live for Him and to serve others. It’s not about recognition, it’s about humility. It’s about a desire to please God and bring glory to His name – not our own.
Paul warns the Corinthians against this type of behavior. He tells them that they don’t need to live life for the approval of each other, nor should they judge others because of the situation they’re in. Paul even goes on to talk to them as a parent would – making sure that the child understands. “Shall I come to you with a rod, or a spirit of gentleness?”
Proverbs 20 speaks to this as well. Is it glory or stature or possessions that uphold a King’s throne? No. It is steadfast love and faithfulness. Scripture defines love at its core as being a product of humbling ourselves. If we live our lives for the approval of others, we have forgotten humility.
Zack Nichols