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

DISCERNING GOODNESS WITHOUT GODLINESS

Not everything that appears good is from God, and not everyone doing wonderful works is aligned with His will. 2 Corinthians 11:13–15 reveals that even Satan can transform himself into an angel of light, and his ministers into ministers of righteousness. Matthew 7:21–23 adds a sober warning as Jesus declares that many who perform mighty works in His name will be rejected because they practised lawlessness. This shows that in God's kingdom, motive, spirit, and alignment with His will matter more than outward acts. The enemy specialises in counterfeiting goodness, producing works that seem helpful but are rooted in rebellion and disobedience.

Beloved, it is not enough to do good; we must do God's will. Acts of kindness, charity, and apparent righteousness that reject the authority of God and the lordship of Christ are nothing but cleverly disguised deception. A man can build hospitals, feed nations, and support the poor, yet be fully under satanic influence if his actions deny the truth of the Gospel. True sons and daughters of the Father discern between godliness and mere goodness. Growing beyond acceptance into divine approval demands that you filter not only actions but also motives and alignments. You must always ask, “Is this God's will? Does this reflect God's truth?”

I want you to learn that the highest calling is not simply to do good but to do good that pleases the Father. Let the Word of God be your standard, not human applause. Let the Spirit of God guide your steps, not popular opinion. Renew your commitment to walk by revelation, to discern spirits, and to live for divine approval rather than human admiration. That is the true path to becoming a son that pleases the Father.

THOUGHT TO PONDER: Are you discerning between outward goodness and genuine godliness in the choices you make? How can you ensure that your works are born out of obedience to God's will and not just human ideas?

PRAYER: Dear Father, teach me to discern and love what truly pleases You. Help me not to be deceived by appearances but to seek and follow Your will. Let my life be filled with works that spring from obedience, truth, and love for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.