Intoxicated By Approval

There’s a subtle allure to become intoxicated by people’s approval. With every sip of their applause and admiration, we dizzily stagger, unaware of the damage it can do. We can’t see the destruction the enemy is plotting back stage because we’re too busy taking our bows on the front side of the curtain.

Weak leaders crave validation, recognition, and respect. Strong leaders are aware of their insecurity, admit it, and deal with it. While they recognize their need for approval, they strive to live for the higher calling. They actively resist leading for people’s acceptance and lead from God’s acceptance (Ephesians 1:6).

Emotional and spiritual sobriety is crucial for leadership (1 Peter 5:8; Titus 2:12). Effective leaders must regularly detox from approval addiction. We can only do this by constant awareness of our need of God’s Grace. When we live free from the need for respect, we can love and serve without limits.