People pleasing

We all want to be accepted.
We all want to be liked.

But people pleasing…
When it becomes a priority…
It can control you.

It can elevate other people’s opinion of you…
To a greater status than listening to what God says.
It’s fearing man more than God.

The Bible tells us…
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.”
-Proverbs 29:25, NIV

What’s a snare?
It’s a trap.

It’s clear that when people’s opinion of us is of greater importance than pleasing God…
We walk into a trap.

What happens with a trap?
It catches you.

What happens when you’re caught?
You go nowhere.

That’s quite fitting because striving for other people’s approval is like trying to grab the wind with your hand.
You can try, but your hand will be empty.

Your progress?
None.

That’s because other people’s opinions are unstable.
One day, you’re praised.
The next, criticized.

You can’t anchor your life to that.
It’s unreliable.

But when you focus on God…
There’s stability.

His view of you isn’t based on what you do.
His love for you is always.
It’s endless.

And here’s truth…
Even Jesus couldn’t please everyone.
He was criticized.

Some praised Him as the King.
Others mocked Him and plotted against Him.
They couldn’t stand Him.

But He was devoted to the will of His Father…
“For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.”
-John 6:38, NIV

That’s our example.
That’s wisdom.

That’s where our focus should be…
Giving God priority.

If some people don’t like it…
So be it.

What God wants for you…
It’s greater than anyone’s opinion of you.
You can be certain.

So, yes, let’s be nice to people…
But let’s make sure God is first above all else.
That’s what matters most.

That’s what benefits you most.

-Steinar


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