Recent Devotionals

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

Many of us suffer from a disease called people-pleasing. We believe that as long as others are happy with us, God must be happy with us, too. Even going back to our childhood, we remember the pain of rejection. It’s often not until we make up our mind to follow Christ, no matter what age that is, that the Holy Spirit begins to deal with our heart concerning this overrated fear.

Jesus was rejected by many of the people who met Him. If we follow Him, we can expect the same reaction. If they persecuted Jesus, they will persecute us as well. As long as we fear the rejection of others, we will not be able to walk in true freedom in Christ or to obey Him without reserve.

Maybe the rejection you experience is not because you are a Christian. Maybe it’s simply not having enough in common with others, or the way you look or act, or something you did. Jesus experienced this as well. People thought he was boasting about his relationship with God. They did not believe His miracles. They mocked where He came from. He was completely misunderstood in what He said and did. But Christ did not let others’ opinions affect who He knew He was.

Our God, who is the King of Kings and the Ruler of the Universe, has already proclaimed that you are accepted in Christ. You have been chosen, redeemed, forgiven, loved, adopted, justified, secure and complete in Christ. Even when you make mistakes you are not condemned, but fully restored by God through your repentant heart.

If people reject you for any reason, turn to the only One whose acceptance really matters. God will take care of those who have misjudged you, and give you the courage to say, “Lord forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

Though forgiveness may seem out of the question, with Christ all things are possible. The rejection you experience now may hurt at the moment, but in time, Christ will restore your heart, and bless your faithfulness. Ultimately, would you rather be exalted by men or by God? I think I know your answer.

Heavenly Father, Thank you that in Your sight I will never be rejected; that I have been accepted now and forever. If I am rejected by others, help me to love them the way You love me. Amen.