Counsel #19 — Beyond Human Validation

Picture: Counsel #19 — Beyond Human ValidationCLi 29.1

When we don’t understand God’s purpose for our lives or grasp His unwavering love, we often seek approval from others. This desire for human validation may boost our ego momentarily, but it ultimately draws us away from realizing that only God’s approval truly matters. Each time we act solely to gain someone else’s acceptance, we risk making that person an idol.CLi 29.2

Our need to feel liked and accepted is rooted in our nature as social beings, searching for purpose and identity. We want to understand why we were created and what we’re meant to do—something only God can reveal. Relying on social media to define our self-worth can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and inadequacy. God created us to be His children, calling us to seek Him when we feel lost or burdened by worldly expectations. When we find our identity in Christ, we no longer need others to define our worth or potential.^{[26]https://adventistreview.org/magazine-article/i-am-not-enough/}CLi 29.3

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, 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 NIVCLi 29.4

“I appeal to all who profess to believe the truth, to consider the character and life of the Son of God. He is our example…” Ellen White in Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 86CLi 29.5

Reflect: Why do you seek approval from others?CLi 29.6