Bible Verse
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.
Here, you’ll know & learn:
・Verse Context
・Key Words
・References from Other Verses of the Bible
・Main Message
・How to Apply This Verse in Your Life
・How to Further Study the Verse
Today, we're going to explore one of the most freeing truths in all of Scripture - the peace that comes when we stop trying to please everyone around us and focus only on pleasing God. Many of us spend our days worried about what others think, changing our words and actions to win approval from friends, family, or coworkers. This constant need for human approval creates stress, anxiety, and exhaustion that weigh heavily on our hearts. But God offers us a different way to live, one filled with peace and confidence that comes from knowing we belong to Him alone.
Throughout history, God's people have faced this same choice between pleasing people or pleasing God. We see this clearly in the story of Daniel, who refused to stop praying even when the king made it illegal and punishable by death in the lion's den. Daniel chose God's approval over the king's approval, and God honored his faithfulness with protection and peace. The same choice stands before us today - will we live for the applause of people who change their minds, or will we find our security in the unchanging love of our Heavenly Father? When we understand that we are servants of Christ first and foremost, everything else falls into proper place, and we can finally breathe freely. Let's bring this desire for freedom to God in prayer right now.
Read more about Daniel in the Lions Den in Daniel 6.
Let's Pray
Heavenly Father,
I come to You today acknowledging Your presence in my life and Your love that never changes. I confess that I have spent too much time worrying about what other people think of me, trying to win their approval instead of seeking Yours first.
This people-pleasing has stolen my peace and made me tired of constantly adjusting who I am to fit what others expect. Thank You for reminding me through Your Word that I cannot serve both human approval and You at the same time - that as Your servant, my loyalty belongs to You alone.
Help me to find my security in being Your child rather than in the opinions of others when I face situations where I must choose between what is popular and what is right, give me the courage to choose You.
Teach me to speak truth with love, even when it might disappoint some people. I am grateful that Your love for me doesn't depend on my performance or how well others like me. Strengthen my heart to live with the same boldness that Daniel showed when he refused to compromise his relationship with You.
Fill me with Your peace that comes from knowing I belong to You completely. Help me remember that when I am faithful to serve You, You will take care of everything else.
In the powerful name of Jesus, I pray.
Amen.
Journaling Prompts
What specific areas of your life do you find yourself most concerned about other people's approval? Write about why these areas feel so important to you and how God might want to bring freedom there.
Think about a recent situation where you changed what you said or did to avoid disappointing someone. How did that make you feel, and what would have happened if you had chosen to please God instead?
Describe a time when someone stood up for what was right even though it wasn't popular. What did you learn from watching their courage, and how can you apply that to your own life?
The peace that comes from serving God alone is real and available to each of us today. As we choose His approval over human approval, we will find the freedom and rest our hearts have been searching for. Remember that this is a daily choice, and God's grace is new every morning to help us walk in this truth.
Until next time,
May the Lord bless you and keep you;
May He make His face shine upon you;
And be gracious to you and give you peace
God Bless!
PrayerForMe.org
If you or a loved one needs prayer, click below to share and receive a personalized devotion and prayer.
Sign Up To Our Newsletter
Loved today's devotional? Don't miss out on future inspiration! Join our growing community of believers by signing up for our newsletter. We'll deliver these uplifting messages straight to your inbox, helping you stay connected and grow in your faith.
P.S. It's free, and we promise to respect your inbox. You can unsubscribe anytime, but we hope you'll stick around for the blessings!