Definition: the expression of approval, especially by the clapping of hands (Webster)
We clap for sports teams, at concerts, for our children. Why? To show our approval, for a job well done, out of love. As we minister to fellow believers, as we share the gospel message to those outside the family of God, as we teach others in Sunday School, what is our motivation? To hear an atta boy? To be noticed? When Jesus walked this earth, He was preaching, teaching and healing. He did not do it for applause or for the approval of men. Rather, He came to do the will of His Father. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)
As we serve Jesus, let us humble ourselves as we encourage others, as we share the good news, as we teach others. For we do not do it for applause, nor for the approval of men. “ Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)