Title: It's One or the Other / Topic: Single-mindedness

Today’s Reading: Job 28, 29; Galatians 1, 2

Scripture: Galatians 2:10

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Observation: Paul is writing to confront the Galatians because they have veered away from the faith that Paul had delivered to them. They have been led onto a wrong path by false teachers and Paul is trying to persuade them to get back.

In verse 10, Paul makes a statement in his own defense that caught my heart. He points out a dichotomy: you can please people or you can please God -- it's one or the other. And he makes a strong definitive declaration. "If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ." Serving Christ and trying to please people are mutually exclusive.

Application: This is something I personally have to contend with on a regular basis. Likely rooted in my own insecurities is my hunger to be considered important in the eyes of others. Paul says this is inconsistent with being a servant of Christ. Here's what I believe on the subject: If you please God, it doesn't matter who you displease and if you displease God, it doesn't matter who you please.

Prayer: Lord I want to be single-minded in my pursuit of pleasing and serving you and you alone. Help me to find my security in your approval. I am your servant.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.