There are times in every person’s life when we must decide who we are going to follow… whose voice we are going to listen to. Will we be swayed by what others want us to do or are we going to live life as God commands us? From personal experience, there are MANY times when those two “voices” are in direct conflict with one another.

How do we know what to do? May I suggest that we turn once again to the writings of the Apostle Paul. This time as he writes to a church in Galatia. I really like how the AMP (Amplified Bible Translation) puts it:

10 Am I now trying to win the favor and approval of men, or of God? Or am I seeking to please someone? If I were still trying to be popular with men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ. - Galatians 1:10

Paul’s question indicates that his opponents, and there were many, were accusing him of preaching only to gain a following. What a waste that would be ….

Editor’s note:

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Paul is never one to “pull punches”. There is no need to argue or belabor his point to the naysayers… He is not there to please them. Let us break down this passage simply:

Galatians 1:10 is a verse in the New Testament where the Apostle Paul addresses the question of his motivations as a servant of Christ.

Meaning and Context:

1. Paul’s Defense of His Ministry: This verse is part of Paul’s defense of the gospel he preaches. In the preceding verses, Paul asserts that the message he preaches is not of human origin but comes directly from Christ. He is addressing critics who may have accused him of altering the gospel to gain favor or approval.
2. Seeking God’s Approval: Paul emphasizes that his primary goal is to please God, not humans. He distinguishes between living to gain human approval and living as a faithful servant of Christ. For Paul, being faithful to the gospel means prioritizing God’s will above societal or personal expectations.
3. Authenticity in Ministry: The verse challenges believers to examine their motivations. It reminds Christians that true discipleship involves prioritizing God’s truth, even when it conflicts with popular opinion or brings opposition.

Application:

• Faith Over Popularity: Believers are called to remain steadfast in their faith, even when it is unpopular or countercultural.
• Integrity in Leadership: For leaders and teachers, this verse underscores the importance of teaching and living out the gospel authentically without compromise for personal gain.
• A Reflection for All Christians: It prompts self-reflection about whose approval one seeks in their daily life—God’s or people’s.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the cost and commitment of following Christ faithfully.

I don’t know exactly how the Lord may use this verse to speak to you today. I know for me personally, as a pastor, there are times when what others think I ought to do or say is in direct conflict with what the Lord is leading me to do or say. There are even more times when, despite my best efforts, I myself get in the way of how the Lord is leading. In either case, the question remains the same…….

Whose voice will I follow? Man’s voice? Or God’s voice?

I pray today that you have and continue to seek and follow the Lord’s voice in your life. I know that there are many voices competing for your attention. Yet, I also know that there is one voice that will never lead you astray.

Thank you for being on this journey with me. I am looking forward to what the Lord will continue to reveal in the time to come. May God bless you and keep you this day and always.