From Acceptance to Approval: Living a Life That Pleases the Fatherಮಾದರಿ

PRESS BEYOND SALVATION — LIVE TO BRING GOD JOY

When God looks at every believer, He sees them in one of two phases: either as those who have established a relationship with Him or those who are actively pleasing Him. Romans 8:29 makes it clear that God predestinated us to be conformed to the image of His Son. Salvation is the starting point — it brings you into relationship with the Father, but the ultimate goal is that you become a reflection of His Son, bringing Him pleasure. Sadly, many believers settle at merely having a relationship with God and never press into the phase where their lives actively bring the Father joy.

Ephesians 2:1-2 shows us the contrast: before salvation, we were dead in trespasses and sins, walking according to the course of this world. Salvation brought us into life, but pleasing the Father requires deliberate growth, conscious pursuit, and intentional obedience. Being loved and accepted is God's free gift; being approved and delighted in by the Father is the result of your daily choices to walk in His will. The mistake many make is assuming that once they are saved, nothing else matters. Yet, divine pleasure is not automatic — it must be pursued. Jesus didn't just have a relationship with the Father; He pleased Him in every aspect of His life.

I want you to learn that while relationship brings you into the family of God, pleasing the Father qualifies you for deeper intimacy, divine secrets, and eternal rewards. God's plan is not just to populate heaven but to raise sons and daughters who reflect His heart. As you walk through this devotional, let your goal be more than enjoying the Father's blessings. Set your heart to live in such a way that the Father can look upon you and say, "This is My beloved son, in whom I am well pleased." Grow beyond mere acceptance; rise into the glorious place of divine approval.

THOUGHT TO PONDER: Are you satisfied with having a relationship with God without striving to bring Him pleasure? What specific adjustments can you make in your daily walk to grow beyond acceptance into approval?

PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for making me part of Your family. Help me go beyond relationship to a life that brings You joy. Conform me daily to Christ’s image and teach me to live with divine pleasure as my highest pursuit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.