The world is watching.

It’s listening to what you say. It’s observing what I do. It’s constantly judging both of these things for all of us.

But there is only One perspective that counts. One opinion that matters. It’s God’s. He knows our hearts. He know our intentions and motivations. He sees our confusion and doubts. He cares about our problems and discouragements.

Paul says this so clearly in 1 Thessalonians, ” You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition. For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed – God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.” vs 2: 1 – 6.

“Not looking for praise from people”. Does that describe me? Does that describe you?

I would love to say that I have this all figured out, but that wouldn’t be true. Most of the time, when I start to seek approval from the world around me, I can remind myself that is not my purpose and it gets me back to having an audience of One. I realized in High School that I was not the same as many of the people around me and I was going to make much different choices in my life. I stopped trying to please people when I realized I’d never please everyone. I started saying, “I march to the beat of a different drum” and that helped me be okay with who I was when I was unusual, not the norm. (Those of you who know me can put joining the Army in this category.)

But I still experience situations where I find myself lost in self-doubt, seeking popularity and acceptance from people instead of God. Have you been there?

I don’t like the feeling of wanting to be someone that everyone likes. It’s frustrating when I focus on how many people like me because it’s so fleeting. I know next week I’ll probably say something you don’t like and I’m suddenly at the bottom of your ‘favorite people’ list.

Can you relate?

When I turn to God for approval, I find his immeasurable love and grace. He is my perfect Father who only wants the best for me. When I seek to please him, I am doing what is best for me. It’s how he created this world.

That’s where I want to be – looking only for approval from my Audience of One.

Love you, Father.