Thought for the day
The idea of not being “man-pleasers” is rooted in several biblical principles that emphasize living for God’s approval rather than seeking to please people. Here’s a deeper look at why this is important:
1. Scriptural Guidance:
The Bible advises against being overly concerned with pleasing others. In Galatians 1:10, Paul says, “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.” This suggests that our primary focus should be on serving God, not on seeking human approval.
2. Authenticity and Integrity:
Trying to please everyone can lead to a lack of authenticity and integrity. It might cause us to compromise on our values or change our beliefs to fit in or gain approval, which can undermine our witness as a Christian.
3. Divine Approval Over Human Approval:
God’s standards are eternal and unchanging, while human opinions can be fickle and inconsistent. Seeking God’s approval means aligning with eternal truths and principles rather than the shifting expectations of people.
4. Focus on God’s Mission:
As Christians, our mission is to live out and share the gospel. This often requires standing firm in our beliefs and values, even when they are unpopular or misunderstood. Pleasing people might lead us to avoid uncomfortable truths or compromise on the gospel message.
5. Impact on Relationships:
Constantly trying to please others can strain relationships, as it may lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointments. It’s healthier to build relationships based on mutual respect and honesty rather than on the shifting sands of approval-seeking.
In essence, not being a “man-pleaser” is about prioritizing our relationship with God and being true to the Word of God. It helps maintain integrity, authenticity, and a clear focus on what truly matters in our faith journey.
Erick Bouwmeester
#lovebeyondchurch
#lovebeyondwordsministry
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