People Pleaser or God Pleaser?
Galatians 1:10 (ESV)
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
Are you a people pleaser?
Many have wrestled with the tendency to be people-pleasers. It is a consequence borne of the sin of pride. Paul’s message to the Galatians demonstrated then and now how easily social media, cultural trends, societal pressures, and the opinions of others can easily influence us. Our decision will inevitably reach one outcome: who we want to please: man or God? In Matthew 12:30 (NIV) Jesus says, “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”
As believers, we must commit to trusting God, even when it means losing friends, rejection from family, losing followers on social media, or even losing a job. When we seek the approval of others beyond all else, we forsake trusting our abilities and sometimes compromise our beliefs. Compromise grows and festers, causing us to justify our actions and convictions. If you have found yourself seeking the approval of others and wish to make a change, may I recommend that living for Jesus is a challenge but an excellent solution? If you commit to seeking God, you will see that he calls upon us to live differently. He invites us to abide in him and embrace our identity in him.
Remember, it's not about doing enough; it's about having faith in the one who saves. Our words and deeds will demonstrate our level of faith. The Holy Spirit will empower us with boldness when we fear people's rejection. As Christians, we are called to holiness. If you compromise for the little things, you will never stand for the significant ones. When we leave this earth, we will stand before Christ and be required to account for our decisions. Will you resolve in your heart to take action this year to fully commit and surrender every aspect of your life to Jesus? If you don’t know him yet as your Lord and Savior, I urge you to decide today. It will be the best decision you will ever make in this life and all eternity.
Do you find that you are more concerned about what others think than what your Creator thinks of you?
Do you grapple with the desire to honor God while also seeking love and approval from people?
Father God, thank you for loving me even when I get caught up in people-pleasing. Sometimes, I get distracted by what the world thinks, and I forget I am not of this world. Please help me refocus my heart and guide me in living for and pleasing you. I pray for those who are feeling the weight of rejection from others. Please help them to fix their eyes on you and cling to your promises. It is in Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Scripture References: Acts5:9; Ephesians 6:6; Colossians 3:22; 1 Thessalonians 2:4; James 4:4.
