True Growth: The Journey from Impressing Others to Deepening Your Relationship with God

 

“True growth begins when you shift your focus from impressing others to deepening your relationship with God.” – Dr. T. D. Ikiriko

These words carry profound truth. How often do we find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of seeking validation from others? The desire to be liked, admired, or envied often drives our decisions, but it rarely brings lasting fulfillment. True growth is found not in chasing applause but in nurturing a relationship with God.

Let me share the story of Sandra, a young woman whose life perfectly illustrates this journey.

Sandra’s Struggle with Approval

Sandra was the quintessential social butterfly. Her social media accounts were a testament to her carefully curated life—dressed impeccably, visiting picturesque locations, and surrounded by laughter. The likes, comments, and shares fed her sense of worth.

But behind the filters and hashtags, Sandra was struggling. The more she tried to impress others, the more she felt like an imposter. No matter how much praise she received, there was an emptiness she couldn’t shake.

A close friend invited Sandra to a local church service one Sunday morning. Hesitant but curious, she attended. The sermon was simple but profound: “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). The words struck her like lightning. She realized that while she had spent years perfecting her outward image, her inner self was neglected. Sandra again stumbled upon a post of Dr. T. D. Ikiriko sharing the very quote above. Those words pierced her heart again. They made her question the life she had been living. Who was she trying to impress? And why did it leave her feeling so unfulfilled?

The Turning Point

Sandra decided to take a bold step. She attended the local church service again the next Sunday. The pastor preached on Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Once, again and again, Sandra realized that her priorities were misplaced.

She prayed that day, asking God to help her live for Him instead of others. She deleted her social media apps temporarily and redirected her time toward discovering who she was in God’s eyes.

Her journey wasn’t easy. There were moments of doubt and loneliness, but as she grew closer to God, she found a peace she had never known.

Living for God, Not the World

Sandra began volunteering at a local shelter, helping others who felt unseen and unloved. One particular encounter changed her perspective forever. A woman she met there shared how Sandra’s encouragement had given her hope. Sandra realized that her life had a purpose far greater than gaining likes or applause—it was to reflect God’s love and light.

Through these experiences, Sandra grew in her faith and her understanding of what truly mattered.

Lessons from Sandra’s Transformation

1. Seek God’s Approval
   Sandra discovered that while human approval is fleeting, God’s love is constant. As Galatians 1:10 says, “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?”

2. Embrace Authenticity
   Living authentically in God’s purpose allowed Sandra to break free from the exhausting cycle of trying to impress others.

3. Find Joy in Serving Others
   True joy came not from what Sandra received but from what she gave—love, time, and encouragement.

Practical Steps to Shift Your Focus

1. Spend Time with God
   Set aside daily time for prayer and reflection. Ask God to reveal areas where you seek approval from others and to help you refocus on Him.

2. Evaluate Your Motives
   Pause before making decisions and ask: Am I doing this to honor God or to impress people?

3. Immerse Yourself in Scripture
   Dive into verses like Psalm 139:14, which reminds us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Let God’s Word reshape your self-perception.

4. Engage in Acts of Service
   Serving others is a powerful way to shift your focus from self-centered desires to God-centered purpose.

5. Build a Supportive Faith Community
   Surround yourself with people who encourage your spiritual growth and help you prioritize your relationship with God.

A Personal Reflection

Dr. T. D. Ikiriko’s words remind us that growth isn’t about outward success or recognition—it’s about inward transformation. Sandra’s story is a testament to this truth. By shifting her focus from impressing others to deepening her relationship with God, she found purpose, peace, and fulfillment.

A Prayer for True Growth

Heavenly Father,

Help me to stop seeking validation from the world and to start seeking You. Teach me to find joy and purpose in deepening my relationship with You. Guide me to live authentically, serve others selflessly, and walk faithfully in Your purpose for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May we all take the first step today toward true growth by choosing God’s approval above all else.

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