John 5:41 AMP
“I do not receive glory and approval from men”
In a world where so many are consumed with seeking the approval and validation of men, we must ask ourselves: what has become of our true guiding light, especially as the people of God? David, the man after God’s own heart once said to God, “The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple” (Psa 119:130 NKJV). God’s Word shines a light of understanding that enables us to see ourselves in Christ. This light guides us to recognize and value ourselves as God does. This is what kept Jesus Christ so peculiar: He was neither moved by applause nor bogged down by slander from men! When He asked the disciples, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” (Mat 16:13 NKJV), Jesus was not looking for their approval for at least two reasons:
First and foremost, being God Himself, Jesus Christ is all-knowing, and thus He did not need to rely on what the disciples could tell Him. He always knew all things before He was born into this earthly realm. Secondly, He said, “I do not receive glory and approval from men” as in our text. Hallelujah! The submissions from men represent only a limited perspective of what they know, which may at times be mistaken or misinformed. However, the commendation that comes from God—before whom nothing is hidden, and who judges fairly—is not only true, but totally reliable. That said, according to Jesus, we must “…seek the honor that comes from the only God” (Joh 5:44 NKJV). Hallelujah!
Indeed, the Scripture teaches that both riches and honour come from God (1 Chr 29:12). The Word also says that “He who follows after righteousness and mercy finds life, righteousness, and honor” (Pro 21:21 MEV). Hallelujah! Therefore, when we walk in the light of God’s Word, we certainly receive the honour that comes from God. His honour is way far greater than the honour from men; it is matchless in splendor; and it ultimately glorifies Him alone in our lives. Let God’s Holy Word remain the guiding light that shapes our way of life; for the Word is tried, it has stood the test of time, and has never been found wanting!
Pst. Emmanuel
