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Stop Striving for God’s Approval: How to Live Fully Loved in Christ

#9 Identity Series

Sunlight filters through dense forest trees, creating a warm and serene atmosphere. Lush green undergrowth and tall trunks dominate the scene.
Sunlight filters through the dense canopy of a serene forest, casting a warm glow on the lush undergrowth.

Stop Striving for God’s Approval — You Already Have His Yes

Do you ever feel like you need to do more to keep God happy with you? Many Christians know in theory that God loves them, but live as if His approval depends on perfect performance. This constant striving is actually the orphan mindset in disguise — a belief that you must earn what has already been freely given.

The truth? In Christ, God’s verdict over you is already: “You are Mine. You are loved. You are enough.”


When you truly believe this, everything changes. You…

  • Serve from joy instead of fear of failure.

  • Love others without chasing their approval.

  • Rest without guilt, knowing your worth isn’t tied to your output.


Real-Life Example 1 — Letting Go of Ministry Pressure

Sarah loved her ministry work, but every time attendance dipped, she felt panic. She feared that God was disappointed with her. Each time she failed to meet her own high expectations she dipped into depression.


One day she read Romans 8:1 — “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” It hit her: her value wasn’t in numbers or results, but in her identity as God’s beloved daughter.

That revelation freed her to serve in peace instead of pressure. She began to make decisions from a place of security in God’s love rather than anxiety over performance.


Real-Life Example 2 — Freedom from Career-Based Worth

James was a successful accountant, but the long hours and constant need to outperform his colleagues were taking a toll. If he didn’t get recognition from his boss, he felt invisible — even to God.


A friend reminded him of Zephaniah 3:17 — “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness…” James began to see that God’s delight in him had nothing to do with promotions, bonuses, or workplace praise.


Over time, he learned to work faithfully without tying his value to achievements. He no longer carried the crushing weight of trying to earn approval — from people or from God.


Bible Verses to Anchor This Truth

  • Zephaniah 3:17 – God rejoices over you with gladness.

  • Galatians 2:20 – We live by faith in the Son of God “who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

  • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

Person in black hoodie sitting on rocks, overlooking sunlit hills. Blonde hair in a bun, peaceful mood, bright sky in the background.
A woman sits on a rock, gazing thoughtfully over the sunlit hills, enjoying a peaceful moment in nature.

3 Reflection Questions to Help You Rest in God’s Approval

  1. Where do I feel I still need to “earn” God’s love?

  2. How would my choices change if I fully believed I already had His approval?

  3. What practical steps can I take to make rest and joy a normal part of my life in Him?


You don’t have to keep striving for a “yes” you already have in Christ. God’s love and approval are unchanging, not dependent on your perfection. It is the very beauty of the gospel. We don't earn His love, approval or forgiveness. It is a wonderous gift!


If you’re ready to let go of striving for God's approval and live securely as God’s beloved child, let’s take that journey together.


Schedule your coaching session and start walking in the freedom of your true identity.



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