Who are you that you should be afraid
Of a man who will die…”
LIVING FOR YHWH’s APPROVAL, NOT SOCIETY’S EXPECTATIONS
Unlike the shifting standards of the people of this world, YHWH’s truth remains constant and unwavering, granting peace and fulfillment that is not dependent on the approval of others.
Choosing YHWH above all else frees us from the burden of trying to meet the ever-changing expectations set by others. The most High’s love and acceptance remain constant and unconditional, providing us with the peace and assurance that our paths are guided by Him. This enables us to live authentically according to His will, in “spirit and truth,” and liberates us from the trap of people-pleasing- free from the fear of judgment or criticism.
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. – Romans 12:2
As we know, seeking approval from others can become an exhausting and never-ending pursuit. People’s expectations are ever-changing, and in the effort to meet them, one can easily fall out of alignment with the will of YHWH and miss the true purpose of their calling.
YHWH’s approval over that of others allows one to align their actions and choices with keeping and following His commandments, rather than simply conforming to the fluctuating expectations of others.
PLEASING YHWH
To start, let me clarify what pleasing YHWH is not about, to provide a clear understanding of this topic.
Pleasing YHWH does not mean:
- Accepting His grace, but rejecting YAH’s laws, status and commandments.
- Living in isolation.
- Manipulating His word to justify sin.
- Belittling and or mocking others because of their understanding.
- Being boastful and proud when blessed.
- Being scornful and bitter when distressed.
- Accepting doctrines of men and rejecting HIS WORD!
Rather it means:
- Repent, and turn to YAH, so that your sins may be forgiven.
- Keep His commandments and do them.
- Judge yourself “Matthew 7:3“
- Humble yourself.
- Pray and seek His face and turn from your wicked ways.
- Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.
- Walk by faith, not by sight.
- In all things acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.
Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of individuals who chose to please YHWH over man. One such example can be found in the Old Testament with the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These three men were faced with a choice – to bow down and worship the golden image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar or be thrown in to the fiery furnace. Despite the immense pressure to conform to the king’s demands and the threat of death, they chose to remain faithful to the Most High and refused to worship any other gods. Their commitment to following the Most High’s commands resulted in them being restraint and thrown into a burning fiery furnace.
“Look!” he answered, “I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth Is like the Son of God.” -Daniel 3:25
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, trusted in the Most High and He delivered them from the snare of the fowler. Their faith had a ripple effect and caused king Nebuchadnezzar to glorify our Father who is in Heaven.
” Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, who sent His Angel and delivered His servants who trusted in Him, and they have frustrated the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they should not serve nor worship any god except their own God!” -Daniel 3:28
Another example can be found in the New Testament with the apostles Peter and John. In Acts 4, Peter and John were brought before the religious leaders and commanded to stop preaching about the Messiah. Despite the threat of imprisonment and persecution, they boldly declared,
“Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” – Acts 4:19-20
Peter and John understood and acknowledged that obeying the most High was more important than appeasing the religious authorities, even if it meant facing opposition and hardship.
In life we are often faced with the choice of whether to prioritize pleasing the Most High or pleasing people. It can be tempting to seek the approval and acceptance of others, even if it means compromising our beliefs or values. However, the examples of Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Peter and John, remind us of the importance of standing firm in our faith and obedience to the most High, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
It is important to remember that our worth and value come from YHWH. We are His beloved children, created in His image, and nothing can change that.
We must be grounded in the truth of His Word. Scripture is the ultimate guide for living a life that honors the most High, and it provides wisdom and insight on how to navigate the complexities of relationships and societal expectations.
Additionally, prayer and worship are powerful tools for overcoming the fear of rejection and persecution. When we bring our fears and concerns to YHWH in prayer, we can experience His peace and assurance that He is with us every step of the way. Through prayer and worship, we can seek guidance, strength, and courage to follow His will, even when it may lead to rejection or persecution.