In this episode of Conversations, I talk about one of the most subtle leadership traps: leading for approval instead of conviction. Over time, the desire to be liked, affirmed, or accepted can quietly replace obedience and integrity, even in well-meaning leaders. I break down three common ways approval replaces conviction, including editing yourself, delaying obedience, and confusing peace with popularity. We also look at the real cost of approval-driven leadership and walk through four marks of leaders who lead from conviction rather than crowd response. If you’re a pastor, church leader, entrepreneur, or anyone carrying responsibility for others, this conversation will help you identify where approval may be shaping your decisions and how to return to conviction-led leadership that is faithful, clear, and healthy.

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