At the collegiate and professional level, many teams utilize a sports scout to identify and evaluate talented athletes. They actively seek out potential prospects who possess the necessary skills, physical attributes and competitive drive to succeed at higher levels. Once identified and chosen by the scout, the athletes still need to prove themselves and demonstrate their skills and ability to make the team.
Athletes are keenly aware of these scouts and keep a watchful eye for them when practicing and competing. They focus on proving themselves and standing out, which could lead to advancement in their sport.
Many athletes also seek the approval and recognition of their coaches, teammates and even their fans. We are all too familiar with the showboat player who scores a touchdown and immediately points to his chest or his name on the back of his jersey. They focus on themselves and seek other’s approval.
This mindset can even be seen off the field in the lives of individuals. We can seek out the approval of friends to be liked or accepted into a particular group. We want to be noticed and may feel like we must prove ourselves worthy.
As Christ followers, on the other hand, we should strive only to please the One who truly matters.
Jesus is Our Example
Jesus lived and died to please God alone.
“The one who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, because I always do what pleases him.” - John 8:29
He was affirmed by God.
“For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16
“While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased. Listen to him!’” - Matthew 17:5
The world encourages us to seek validation from others, but Scripture emphasizes the importance of finding our worth in God alone, rather than in human opinions.
Read more about what it looks like to receive the right recognition that comes only from God.
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