"Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am." (John 13:13) "It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord." (Matt. 10:25)

A young man had studied under a world-renowned master. Eventually the time came for the student's first recital. Following each selection, despite the cheers of the crowd, the performer seemed dissatisfied. Even after the last number, with the shouts louder than ever, the talented violinist stood watching an old man in the balcony. Finally, the elderly one smiled and nodded in approval. Immediately, the young man relaxed and beamed with happiness. You see, the man in the balcony was his teacher, and thus the applause of the crowd had meant nothing to him until he had first won the hearty approval of his master. (From 1500 Illustrations for Biblical Preaching)

Let us diligently seek the hearty approval of our Master, and not be overly concerned about the approval of men.