Finding True Fulfillment-Pt. 1
Turning from Others’ Gratification to God’s Grace
Blessed Mornings
Why do we seek approval, praise, recognition, or validation from others?
What drives us to care so much about what other people think of us?
In the pursuit of happiness and contentment, I’ve come to realize that the world often teaches us to seek gratification from external sources, be it in the form of praise, approval, or material possessions. But as a Christian, I’ve learned that relying on the gratification of others can be a dangerous path to tread. Instead, the true source of fulfillment lies in seeking God’s grace and approval.
As we journey through life, it’s natural to desire the approval and admiration of those around us. We want to be liked, respected, and valued. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with seeking validation, the danger lies in making it the foundation of our self-worth and happiness.
The Bible reminds us in …
Proverbs 29:25, “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.”
The nature of human gratification is fickle, though sweet and comforting in the moment, it’s ever-changing. It’s like chasing a mirage in the desert, always just out of reach. And even though, we may gain the applause of the world, momentarily, it is often short-lived. The accolades and admiration we receive today might easily turn into criticism and rejection tomorrow. Which we often see around us far and near, think of how you spend years accepting movie stars, musicians, politicians, etc. Until, they do something wrong, something that makes you mad or hurt you. And the moment this happens you no longer like them or support them. You move on to the next best actress/actor or President who says or does what you want to hear. This happens in our personal lives as well.
When we depend on others for our happiness and self-worth, we are like ships on a turbulent sea, tossed about by the ever-shifting waves of human opinion. This constant craving for external gratification can lead to anxiety, insecurity, and even depression.
This is why it is important to search for meaning beyond the mundane, as it can be perilous to seek gratification from others. We can often miss the deeper purpose of our existence, the purpose and reasons that Christ saw fit for us.
As Proverbs 16:4 states- “The Lord has made “All Things” for himself: Yea (yes), even the wicked for the day of evil.
“In which, my understanding, means that all things here on earth and heaven were created by God whether it be good or bad, was created with a purpose.”
As Christians, we believe that we are created in the image of God, and our ultimate purpose is to glorify Him and enjoy a loving relationship with Him. Which can be referenced in Colossians 1:16 (KJV)…
” For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him and for him”
When we focus on God’s grace and approval, we find meaning and purpose in ourselves and others, that go beyond the temporary highs of human admiration and validation.
The Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 1:10, “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.” Paul’s words remind us that seeking God’s approval should be our primary concern.
The steadfast love of God is the most beautiful aspect of turning to God for gratification. It is the unwavering nature of His Love and Approval. In Psalm 136:26, we are reminded to…
“Give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.”
Unlike the unpredictable nature of human opinion, God’s love for us is constant and unchanging. He knows our flaws and imperfections and loves us despite them. We don’t have to look the part or act a part to gain the love of God, His love is real, and He accepted us, even before we accepted Him. This kind of love is like no other, this kind of gratification is like no other. You will not find in mankind, what you will find in God.
When we place our trust in God and seek His gratification, we build a solid foundation for our self-worth and happiness. We build a foundation set on Truth-HIS TRUTH. We can find security and peace in knowing that we are deeply loved by the Creator of “All Things”, and His approval is what truly matters. It is this Truth that gives us salvation and saves our souls, mankind can’t do that, But Jesus can. As scripture tells us,
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)
In John 14:6, Jesus explains to Thomas (His disciple-one of the 12 Apostles)
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
As we learn to embrace God’s grace and healing, learning to turn away from seeking gratification
from others and turning toward God’s grace also allows us to experience His transformative power. When we recognize our need for God and surrender to His will, we open ourselves to His healing and sanctifying work in our lives. It’s a journey of self-discovery, redemption, and spiritual growth.
In conclusion, as Christians, we are called to shift our focus from seeking the fleeting gratification of others to finding our true worth and contentment in God. Human approval is transient and often shallow, but God’s love is eternal and profound. By seeking His approval and embracing His grace, we can find lasting fulfillment and purpose. In the words of Psalm 62:1,
“For God alone, my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation.”
Let us all learn to seek gratification in God and trust in His unfailing love as we navigate the ups and downs of life.
As Always
~Stay Safe-Stay Encouraged-Stay Blessed~
Always W/Love,
Journaling To My Truth