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9INE POINT > Blog > Faith > Athlete Devotionals > Athlete Devotionals: November 20 – Purpose Over Popularity
Athlete DevotionalsFaith

Athlete Devotionals: November 20 – Purpose Over Popularity

Jacolby Gilliam
Last updated: November 1, 2025 1:08 am
Jacolby Gilliam
2 days ago
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God Sees the Work You Do in Private – Devotional
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Galatians 1:10 (NIV)
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Biblical Context
Paul wrote this to churches in Galatia who were being pressured to compromise their faith to fit in. False teachers were telling them to water down the gospel to make it more acceptable. However, Paul’s response was bold: “I’m not here to please people. I’m here to serve Christ.” He knew he couldn’t do both, therefore, had to choose.

Reflection
Social media. Teammates. Coaches. Fans. Clearly, the pressure to please everyone is real, and it’s exhausting. So, you curate the perfect post, say what people want to hear, play the role they expect. Then, you chase the likes, follows, and approval. Yet, it never feels like enough.

You weren’t created to chase applause. Instead, you were called to pursue purpose. In fact, living for God’s approval frees you from the exhausting cycle of comparison. God sees beyond your highlight reel. Moreover, He looks at your heart. So, let that be your focus.

Application
Ask yourself today: Am I seeking God’s approval in how I live, speak, train, and post. Or just trying to impress others?

Prayer Guide
God, help me to live for You. Not for likes, claps, or approval. Center my heart on Your purpose for me.

Reflect & Share
Talk to a friend about the pressure to perform for people. Be real about where you struggle with people-pleasing. Encourage each other to choose purpose over popularity this week.

Compete with Faith. Grow with His Word.
Previous Devotional: November 19 – Play Through the Pain
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Jacolby Gilliam
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TAGGED:Athletes and popularityChristian identityGalatians 1:10God’s approvalPurpose driven
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