In his post today, Bob Kauflin had a very interesting devotion on the topic of pleasing God. For those of us who serve on technical teams (sound, media) we often think we are doing what we do to please God, but are we? Have you ever stopped to think ask yourself the question, “Why do I serve on this team”?
Sometimes we don’t even realize what motivates us on a human level. Many of us can fall into the trap of seeking approval of others and getting praised for what we do. I don’t mean to say that it is wrong to say “thank you” or “good job” to someone who gives of themself in service to God. But for those that do serve we do have to be careful about our motivation. Do we get disappointed if we feel we did a great job and it went unnoticed? Would we continue to serve even if nobody ever said “thanks”?
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Gal. 1:10) This is a powerful reminder from scripture that we most always be on the alert and think about our motivations. A sinful man, we need to remember that even godly service can be twisted and distorted if done for the wrong reasons.
However, we must also remember that it is only through the sacrifice that Christ has already made that we are fully justified before God. Nothing we do to please God can make Him accept us. In fact, it is God who enables us to even be able to please Him in the first place! For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (Phil. 2:13)
Don’t give up trying to please God. Serve Him and serve Him well, but do keep it in perspective and make sure you are doing it for the right reasons!