“Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.” Galatians 1:10 (NLT)
In today’s culture, influence is everywhere. Social media, celebrities, and public figures often set the tone for how people dress, talk, think, and behave. It’s easy to feel the pressure to be visible, admired, and followed. Everyone seems to be chasing the next viral moment. But as a believer, there’s a higher calling; there’s more to life than being popular. You were created to know God and to make Him known.
Throughout Scripture, we see individuals who held fame, wealth, and influence, yet chose to use it for God’s glory. David and Gideon were mighty warriors celebrated by the people. Joseph and Daniel rose to high ranks in foreign governments. Esther stood before a king and changed the fate of a nation. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were prosperous men honoured by rulers. Yet, none of them lived for the applause of men. They understood that their lives had a divine purpose, and they boldly declared their allegiance to God.
The early church carried this same mindset. Despite persecution, they spread the gospel with boldness and conviction. Their influence was so great that they “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). Among them were public figures like Paul, Peter, Matthew the former tax collector, and Luke the doctor. These men didn’t use their platforms for self-promotion but to share the good news of Jesus.
Jesus calls every believer to be a light in the world (Matthew 5:14). That means your visibility, whether on a stage, in a boardroom, a classroom, or online, is not for personal fame. It’s an opportunity to reflect God’s glory and help others see Him more clearly (Matthew 5:16).
Dear believer, God didn’t place you in this world to chase after popularity or human approval. He put you here to walk in purpose, to be salt and light, and to point others to Christ. So stand firm in your calling.
There’s more to your life than being popular. You were made to make a difference. Popularity fades, but purpose remains. The applause of men is temporary, but the reward of a life lived for God is eternal. When your life points people to Jesus, you’re not just trending, you’re transforming lives. So choose influence over impression, depth over display, and impact over image. Let your life echo in eternity by walking boldly in your God-given purpose.
Bible Reading Plan: 2 Kings 6-8; Luke 1: 26-56