PLEASING GOD MORE THAN OTHERS

Galatians 1:10 says, "Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant." Prioritizing the approval of others can significantly impede our spiritual development. To truly grow, we must shift our focus to please God rather than others. The Apostle Paul expresses that he would prefer to please God by fulfilling his calling to preach the Word of God rather than silencing himself to satisfy those who do not want to hear the gospel. It is tempting to avoid doing what God has placed in our hearts to prevent discomfort with others, but we end up compromising our faith. God wants us to stand for what is good in His eyes. We need to express where we stand on the issues, but with grace and love. God wants us to stand for what is true and right, even when others do not want to hear it. We may offend others, but that will save us from guilt and shame before our God. Being a believer in our Lord Jesus means that we are His followers. We are no longer trying to please others; instead, we are living to follow God, regardless of our circumstances.

When I began ministering to the youth in the refugee community, I struggled with reaching out to the Muslim youth in the community because I wanted them to join our soccer program. However, I realized that many of them, including their parents, do not want to hear the Word of God; they just want to play soccer. So, I had a struggle within. Do I stop preaching the Word of God so that they can join and please them, or do I follow God in what He has called me to do? As I prayed for God to grant me the courage to fulfill His calling, He empowered me to preach the Word of God in our soccer program, even if it means losing nearly half the kids in the community who are Muslim. To my surprise, many of the Muslim kids stayed, and some of the parents were delighted because I did not hide my true intentions. They respected my sincerity. Although many of them did not believe in the gospel, they heard the message of God. 

Standing for our faith to please God at our home, school, and work can be challenging at times, but we must ask God to give us the courage to please Him instead of the people around us, including those we love and respect. 

Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) Is there a moment when I didn't stand for my faith in God because I didn't want to offend others? What should I do if I am tempted not to stand up for my faith out of fear of offending someone? What is God teaching me in today's devotion, and am I willing to apply the lesson at my home, school, or work?

Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.

Prayer:

Dear Father in Heaven, please give me the courage to stand for my faith to please you rather than others. Please help me to do what is right before you. Since I received Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I am no longer living for myself but for you. I now belong to you and not to this world. In your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.