Confusing God’s grace with his approval

One thing that God has been reminding me recently is that just because my ministry is blessed, this doesn’t necessarily mean I have his approval.

This passage is a perfect example of that.

Through Moses, the people of Israel were given water. But Moses most definitely did not have God’s approval.

God had told him to speak to the rock and that God would cause water to come out of it to quench the people’s thirst.

But in a fit of anger because of all the people’s complaints, Moses struck the rock instead.

And…water came out. Everyone was satisfied.

Had God not said anything, Moses might have deceived himself into thinking he had God’s approval. After all, God had used him, and the people’s need was met.

But God was not pleased with Moses.

He said,

Because you did not trust me to demonstrate my holiness in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them. (Numbers 20:12)

We must never confuse God’s grace in our ministry with his approval of us.

For the sake of his people and his kingdom, in his grace, God may use us to bring blessing to many, even when we’re being unfaithful to our call.

But the fact that he blesses our ministry doesn’t mean that we have God’s approval.

That makes me tremble. What will God say to me when I stand before him?

Will he say, “Well done?”

Or will all I have done be burned away? (1 Corinthians 3:15)

God, you have entrusted me with this ministry to your people. Not for my sake. Not for my glory. But for the sake of your people to bless them. And for the sake of your glory.

Forgive me for the times that I have forgotten that. Help me to always be faithful as your steward.

Thank you for your grace that always picks me up and sustains me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.