“Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Galatians 1:10
My first date was a terrifying hike in the Colorado Rockies. Halfway up the mountain, my date asked, “Do you like Dire Straits?” Oblivious to the existence of the British rock band by that name, I assumed he was asking if I liked bad situations. I couldn’t imagine what would be worse at the moment than the hike we were already on. Even so, I responded, “Yes, I do!”

As you might surmise, I struggle with people-pleasing. Valuing what others think, we often worship and serve people instead of God. This idolatrous struggle is one the Galatians faced, too. Their desire to please false teachers was so great that it led to a rejection of the gospel. Literal dire straits!

But there is hope! Jesus set you free from sin to serve God. The Spirit reminds you that, unlike people, God is selfless, wise, and loving, and He will always work in your best interest.

If you are trapped in a cycle of people-pleasing, run to your heavenly Father. Ask Him to set you free again to serve Him alone. He will do it! He is worthy of your worship.



Scripture Focus

Galatians 1

Insight

Only God is God; only He sent His Son to die for you; only He loves you perfectly. Seek to please Him rather than others.

Bible In A Year

  • Deuteronomy 3-4
  • Psalm 81
  • Acts 2

RENEW Your Anchor Subscription Today