Living to Impress

On Sunday, we discussed how many of us stop short of godliness and live contently in a state of perceived goodness. Goodness seeks the honor of men, while godliness is focused on honoring God. Jesus speaks directly on this subject:

“Nevertheless, many even of the authorities believed in him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God.”
John 12:42–43

Jesus says it was not a failure of belief; it was a failure of focus.

Are you living for the glory of others more than the glory of God?

Are you consumed with thoughts of, “Am I impressive?” “Am I respected?” “Am I needed?”

Why do you want to be good?

Deep down, goodness often wants others to think I am great. Seeking to be great is a slippery slope of cutting corners, sacrificing morals, and compromising values for the sake of temporary gain. Greatness believes that if I can achieve enough, then I will be loved, accepted, and valued.

Test yourself:

When I work, whose “well done” do I desire?

When I serve, do I need recognition?

When I am generous, do I make it known?

Goodness idolizes greatness and believes it is what saves us! Godliness knows that our works are done from approval. Goodness hopes our works will earn approval.

We must move from asking, “Am I doing good?” to “Whom am I seeking to honor?”

There is great temptation even in our spiritual lives to honor ourselves—to pray impressive prayers, to post well-worn Bibles, to project a spirituality that is not actually inside us.

We may fool those around us, but we are not fooling God!