And they praised God because of me. (Galatians 1:24 NIV, 10-12-12)

Okay, how do I balance that? Wanting people to praise God because of me but not wanting it toooo much?

Well, I think the key is that Paul is not saying, “I worked to gain their approval,” but rather, “I was doing what God called me to do and they approved of it.”

The first option is focused on pleasing people. The second is focused on pleasing God.

Deep down, I hope people will approve of what I do and praise God for it. And some do.

But many don’t. I can then start worrying about how to get their approval–at the risk of moving outside of God’s will. Or I can focus on staying in God’s will and gaining His approval.

And the right choice is pretty obvious.

[Father, help me to focus on doing your will. I pray that many would see that and praise God, and that I wouldn’t let the others deter or discourage me.]