GOD’S GLORY OVER HUMAN COMMENDATION 1
OCTOBER 27, 2025
TEXT:
Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:
For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. (John 12:42-43)
Today’s topic revolves around encouraging us as believers to be more focused on doing things to the glorification of the name of God, as opposed to receiving earthly and human approval. Human approval is good. Human recommendation is superb. Human appreciation is not a sin. However, when we allow it to reign supreme in our hearts at the expense of Godly approval, then it becomes a big problem.
A lot of people live for validation. They are so passionate about pleasing others that they sometimes compromise their faith to be on the safe side with men, believing that God can be easily “bribed.” When the fear of “what others would say” blindfolds you, automatically you are already in the den of bondage (Proverbs 29:25).
LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT THE FOLLOWING EXAMPLES:
- Because of this unfortunate scenario, many Christians sometimes shield their faith in corporate organizations just to have one or two bottles of alcohol. This is not because they passionately support alcohol or do not know the implications to their spiritual journey and health. However, they are so worried and anxious about others calling them fanatics, and by virtue of that, they try to act cosmopolitan.
- Many ministers today have “slim-fitted” the gospel being preached by them in order to suit the interest of their sophisticated and cosmopolitan congregation. You used to have a strong voice against adultery, divorce, fornication, masturbation, pornography, violence, alcoholism, provocative dressing, etc. But because most of your cash givers and money bags are within the congregation and you don’t want to hurt them (according to you), you decide to start giving “tailor-made” sermons where the members easily salute you thus: “Papa, you are great! Mama, ride on in grace.” You now care about your members leaving church “happy and carnally gratified/blessed” rather than being “sober, reflective and moody” about their sinful lifestyles. You are completely oblivious of what heaven is saying but care more about your name being sung on the lips of all and sundry.
- Many Christians take decisions that pertain to their lives, not based on heavenly revelation but based on people’s opinions, wants, and validations. God wants your child to study Music, for instance, but because your friends are being called “Iya Doctor,” “Baba Engineer,” “Mummy Lawyer,” etc., you decide to jettison heaven’s voice in pursuit of societal blending. It may not turn out well.
The above are a few of the instances where believers apply a tailor-made and selfish approach to issues pertaining to their lives.
SEARCHLIGHT:
Men will surely speak. However, not every utterance from man is meant to glorify God. Some are meant to be taken with a pinch of salt. Therefore, neglect human validation and focus on divine prompting.
PRAYER:
O LORD, help me to please you more in all things, in Jesus’ mighty name.
BIBLE READING: Hosea 1–3, Luke 23
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
