Pure Glory

by Hazel Straub

Many times we have to choose whether we will please people to gain their approval or trust God. Checking with God first and following him does not make one popular. Compromise results, when we give performances, in a futile attempt to gain approval and applause. Popularity never lasts because the standards of the crowd always changes. People pleasing ends in a lack of respect for one’s self, disdain from others and chasing the wind.

King Saul was the people’s choice. He was tall and handsome and looked like a king. (1 Samuel 8-10) Unfortunately, his character was not well-formed. His fear was losing  man’s approval, instead of God’s blessing. This attitude resulted in his losing God’s approval and favor for ruling Israel. People pleasing turned into a lifestyle of pride and rebellion against God because he let his flesh rule and ignored the spiritual leadership of God. His rule ended in defeat with the loss of his life, his family, and popularity.

King Saul’s kingdom was given to “a man after God’s own heart,” King David, who gave God all his heart in worship. Although he was not perfect, he focused on pleasing God. King David turned to God in humbleness, when he sinned. His reliance and trust was in God not his own importance. God blessed and preserved King David, with Jesus our Redeemer, descending from him.

If you fear other people, you are walking into a dangerous trap;
but if you trust in the Eternal, you will be safe. (Proverbs 29:25 VOICE)

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