The Validation Test | Greg Ford | ONE CHURCH

ICEBREAKER:

How did you see God move this last week?

Pastor Greg discusses the importance of not seeking approval from others but rather focusing on the approval of God. As an example, it uses the story of Jesus being tempted to jump off the temple to impress people. The script encourages viewers to detach from the need for human approval and instead seek God's affirmation.

Understanding Jesus helps us connect with the best part of ourselves, as we are created in God's image. Jesus serves as the ultimate example of God's image in a human being.

Jesus faced temptation in the wilderness, mastering his appetite to resist indulgence. The significance of Jerusalem and the temple played a crucial role in Jesus' life and mission.

Jesus resisted the temptation to seek approval from people through miracles, focusing instead on challenging and serving them. The story of Jesus' temptations provides insight into evaluating our own motives and desires.

Desiring affirmation is natural, but needing it excessively can hinder genuine service. Detaching from the need for approval leads to effective work and authentic service.

Jesus resisted the temptation to seek approval from the crowd and remained focused on serving the marginalized, demonstrating true boldness through humility and compassion.

Interpreting scripture out of context can lead to misrepresentation and manipulation. Testing God's faithfulness is discouraged, as shown in the story of the Israelites in Exodus 17.

Encouraging a young athlete to embrace failure as a learning opportunity, shift focus from seeking external approval to personal growth, and gain confidence through self-acceptance.

By following God's purpose and doing the work He has led you to do, you can feel His affirmation, leading to boldness and the ability to do spectacular things for the right reasons.

QUESTIONS:

QUESTION 1:
How does the story of Jesus being tempted to jump off the temple relate to the theme of seeking approval from others?

QUESTION 2:
In what ways can seeking human approval hinder our ability to serve and follow God's will?

QUESTION 3:

How can we differentiate between desiring affirmation from others and living for their approval?

QUESTION 4:

What are some practical steps we can take to detach ourselves from the need for human applause and focus on God's approval?

QUESTION 5:

Can you share a personal experience where you struggled with seeking approval from others and how you overcame it?

GUIDED PRAYER:

Heavenly Father,

We come before you today with grateful hearts, thankful for your love and grace in our lives. We acknowledge that at times we have sought approval and affirmation from others, rather than focusing on your approval. We ask for your forgiveness for the times when we have placed human applause above your divine affirmation.

Lord, help us to detach ourselves from the need for human approval and instead seek your approval above all else. Grant us the strength and wisdom to serve you wholeheartedly, without seeking validation from others. May we find our worth and identity in you alone, knowing that we are deeply loved and cherished by you.

Guide us in discerning the difference between healthy affirmation and the need for constant approval. Help us to live boldly and courageously, not for the applause of others, but for your glory and honor. Teach us to trust in your plan for our lives and to walk in obedience to your will.

Lord, we surrender our desires for human approval at your feet. Fill us with a deep sense of your love and acceptance, so that we may live out our purpose with confidence and joy. May we find peace in knowing that we are approved and cherished by you, our Heavenly Father.

We offer this prayer in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

One ChurchApril 16, 2024