We all know that there is a tug-of-war between the Spirit and the flesh. Which will win depends on who we want to please— God or the world. When we succumb to pleasing the world, oftentimes it is because we seek approval from it. We don’t want to be different. We want to be popular in its eyes.

However, the problem with craving world popularity is the focus on self. In an effort to make a name for ourselves, we can easily be distracted from our mission, which, as heavenly ambassadors, is to exalt the name of Jesus by emulating His life.

Growing up, Jesus was a favorite of both men and God (Luke 2: 52). However, the popularity he had with men, He didn’t seek. It came about because of His humble ways of ministering to others, and by giving credit where credit was due— to God. When some sought to have Him use His popularity to rise into worldly affairs, He refused to do so. There was never a struggle over whom He would choose to please.

Of course, He had enemies too as a result of His ways and teachings. Even rejected and with His life threatened, He didn’t compromise, though. He stayed on mission, considering it more important to please God rather than man.

So too should we seek the approval of God rather than that of the world, mindful of the Word by the Apostle Paul in Galatians 1: 10 that says we can’t serve both. “For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.”

Will there be a price to pay, being different, displaying pride in God rather than self? Of course! But the cost in this life is only temporary as opposed to the crown-wealth of eternal life.

We should keep the following in mind as we determine to not please this world, pleasing God instead: “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” Matthew 5:11, 12.