Have you ever known someone who needed to gain approval from others? It might be an athlete to a coach…student to a professor…or worker to an employer. While this is not always completely wrong or unhealthy, there does come a point to which a re-focus must happen. A wide-receiver may desire mass recognition from his fans to gain fame. Likewise, an associate may push themselves to strenuous limits to be recognized by the higher-ups in order to get that promotion. Whatever the task…whatever the benefit…and whatever the reason, we must all regularly ask ourselves one gigantic question, “Who am I trying to please here?”
…we urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way that pleases God, as we have taught you…
1Thessalonians 4:1 (NLT)
Gaining favor with people is fine, but I would argue that it shouldn’t be what drives our efforts. When our work is done to honor and please God, people see it and notice a difference in how we do things. Additionally, aiming to please Him greatly affects our drive…our work ethic. One final point would be this. We may get some fame or fortune from pleasing others, but Christ promises eternal riches, life, and happiness. May God be pleased with our lives this week.
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