Overcoming People-Pleasing: Pleasing God, Not People

You Cannot Please God and People

Do you find yourself constantly striving to please others? Are you constantly seeking the approval and affirmation of those around you? If so, you are not alone. People-pleasing is a common struggle that many of us face. However, it is important to recognize that people-pleasing is not only a fruitless endeavor, but it is also a sin.

A Trap of Satan

People-pleasing is a scheme and trap that has been present since the beginning of time. It is a temptation that Satan uses to distract us from living for God's approval and instead, seeking the praise and affirmation of others. This temptation has been woven into the fabric of humanity ever since the fall.

Throughout history, we have fallen into the fear of man and the desire to please others. We have allowed the opinions of others to dictate our actions and decisions. However, God clearly warns us against this in the Bible. The apostle Paul states, "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" (Galatians 1:10).

It is clear that we cannot serve both God and man. We must choose whom we will ultimately serve and whose pleasure we will seek. Ultimately, God knows our hearts and whom we truly serve (1 Thessalonians 2:4).

Jesus Confronts the Fear of Man

Jesus also addressed the ancient fear of man during his earthly ministry. He recognized that many were more concerned with the approval of others than with pleasing God. In Luke 12:4-5, Jesus says, "I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him."

Jesus emphasizes the importance of fearing God above all else. He encourages us to focus on pleasing God rather than seeking the approval of people who can only harm us physically. Our ultimate fear and reverence should be directed towards God, who has the power to judge us for our actions.

Why God Hates People-Pleasing

So why does God hate people-pleasing? It goes against his design for us as his children. God desires us to live in obedience to him and seek his approval above all else. When we prioritize the approval of others, we are essentially placing them above God in our lives.

Furthermore, people-pleasing can lead to compromising our faith and values. We may find ourselves compromising our beliefs in order to fit in or gain the approval of others. This can ultimately lead us down a dangerous path away from God.

Additionally, people-pleasing can hinder our ability to fulfill the purpose and calling that God has for our lives. When we are constantly seeking the approval of others, we may be more focused on pleasing them rather than following God's leading and obeying his commands.

Seeking God's Approval

Instead of seeking the approval of people, we should strive to please God. He is the one who created us, knows us intimately, and has a perfect plan for our lives. When we live to please him, we can experience true fulfillment and purpose.

Seeking God's approval also means aligning our lives with his Word. The Bible is our guide for living a life that is pleasing to God. By studying and meditating on his Word, we can gain a deeper understanding of his will for our lives and make choices that honor and glorify him.

Furthermore, seeking God's approval involves surrendering our desires and preferences to him. We must be willing to let go of our own agenda and trust in his perfect plan. This requires humility and a willingness to submit to his authority.

Overcoming the Fear of Man

Overcoming the fear of man and the temptation to people-please is not easy, but it is possible with God's help. Here are a few practical steps to help you on your journey:

1. Focus on God's Opinion

Instead of seeking the approval of others, focus on pleasing God. Remember that his opinion is the only one that truly matters. Seek to align your thoughts, actions, and decisions with his will.

2. Find Identity in Christ

Our worth and value should not be determined by the opinions of others. Our true identity is found in Christ. We are loved, accepted, and chosen by God. When we find our identity in him, the opinions of others hold less power over us.

3. Surround Yourself with Godly Community

It is important to surround yourself with a community of believers who will encourage and support you in your pursuit of pleasing God. Seek out friendships and relationships that will point you towards Christ and hold you accountable.

4. Renew Your Mind

Transform your thinking by meditating on God's Word. Allow the truth of Scripture to shape your thoughts and beliefs. Replace negative and fear-based thinking with God's promises and truths.

5. Trust in God's Sovereignty

Remember that God is in control of every situation. Trust in his sovereignty and his ability to work all things for your good. When we trust in God's plan, we can let go of the need to please others and instead focus on pleasing him.

Conclusion

In a world that encourages us to seek the approval of others, we must resist the temptation to people-please. Instead, let us seek to please God above all else. He is the one who created us, knows us intimately, and has a purpose and plan for our lives.

By focusing on God's opinion, finding our identity in Christ, surrounding ourselves with godly community, renewing our minds with God's Word, and trusting in God's sovereignty, we can overcome the fear of man and live a life that is pleasing to God.

Remember, we cannot serve both God and man. Let us choose to serve and please the one who matters most - our Heavenly Father.