Pleasing God Not Them | Short Sermon Series

Today’s key verse poses an important question, one the Apostle Paul asked in the book of Galatians but that’s still relevant for us today: “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” (Galatians 1:10).

Hold up! Wait — what?! People in Bible times struggled with people-pleasing? Yes, they did.

The Greek word for “please” is transliterated to English as areskó. At its core, it means “to agree to satisfy another in order to win their approval, affection, or attention; to meet their expectations; to willingly serve.” Knowing this comprehensive definition causes the verse to pop much more than it does when reading it in English.

I hate to admit it, but there are so many times I give myself up to someone else’s will rather than boldly and bravely choose to do what would most please God. Now, of course, if what someone else desires is in line with God’s will, that’s altogether different. However, when we feel that twinge of tension, we must choose to prioritize pleasing God above pleasing people. We can determine to daringly speak truth while being careful to avoid hurting someone’s feelings.

Let’s commit to seeking the Lord’s plan rather than pursuing the approval of others. It won’t always be easy, but God is continually faithful. He can teach us how to confidently live our lives despite the expectations and opinions of others.

Devotion by Karen Ehman @proverbs31ministries 

Designed by @beth.low