Today we will talk about bible verses about pleasing God, not man. Many Christians do not fully understand what it means to focus on God’s approval instead of seeking validation from people. As we navigate through life’s challenges, it’s easy to get caught up in what others think of us. However, our primary goal should be to live according to God’s will and Word. Let’s dive into the Scriptures and discover how we can encourage each other to please God in our daily lives.
Bible Verses About Pleasing God, Not Man
Seeking God’s Approval
As we walk in faith, our heartbeat should be directed toward pleasing God. Seeking His approval means aligning our values and choices with His Word. We often find ourselves measuring our worth based on the opinions of those around us. However, our primary focus should be on what God thinks of us. In this journey, let us remember that His approval is what will lead us to true fulfillment and purpose in life.
Galatians 1:10
“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.” – Galatians 1:10
1 Thessalonians 2:4
“On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:4
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Hebrews 11:6
“And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” – Hebrews 11:6
Living by Faith
Living by faith is one of the core ways we please God. When we act on what we believe and trust in His guidance, we show our faith in action. It’s about trusting Him in uncertain times and having confidence that His plan is better than our own. By doing this, we are declaring our reliance on Him rather than on the fleeting opinions of the world.
2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Romans 14:23
“But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.” – Romans 14:23
James 1:6
“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” – James 1:6
1 John 5:14
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” – 1 John 5:14
Romans 5:1-2
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand, and we boast in the hope of the glory of God.” – Romans 5:1-2
Obeying God’s Commands
Part of pleasing God involves obeying His commands. When we follow His teachings, we express our love for Him. This obedience stems from an understanding that His guidelines are not restrictions but avenues toward a fulfilling life. We can encourage each other to stay close to His Word, which provides wisdom and strength to navigate life’s complexities.
John 14:15
“If you love me, keep my commands.” – John 14:15
1 John 2:3-4
“We know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commands. Whoever says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person.” – 1 John 2:3-4
James 1:22
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” – James 1:22
Deuteronomy 5:33
“Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” – Deuteronomy 5:33
Psalm 119:2
“Blessed are those who keep His statutes and seek Him with all their heart.” – Psalm 119:2
Relying on God’s Strength
Relying on God’s strength is vital in our journey to please Him. We often encounter difficult situations where we feel we can’t meet expectations, but the beauty of our faith lies in acknowledging that we don’t have to rely on our own abilities. Instead, we can lean on God who strengthens us. His power is made perfect in our weaknesses, creating a space for Him to shine through us.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him.” – Psalm 28:7
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Embracing God’s Love
When we talk about pleasing God, we cannot overlook the powerful truth that we are eternally loved by Him. His love compels us to respond with gratitude and devotion. When we embrace the love God extends to us, it naturally leads to a desire to live in ways that honor Him. It’s this understanding that helps us move away from seeking man’s approval, allowing our lives to be a beautiful reflection of His love.
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
1 John 4:19
“We love because He first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Psalm 136:1
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1
Ephesians 2:4-5
“But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” – Ephesians 2:4-5
Walking in the Spirit
Walking in the Spirit is essential to our faith journey as we strive to please God instead of man. When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide our actions and decisions, we reflect God’s qualities in our lives. It is a daily choice we make to yield to His leading, which strengthens our relationship with God. This connection empowers us to rise above societal pressures, living a life that honors our Creator.
Galatians 5:16
“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” – Galatians 5:16
Ephesians 4:30
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” – Ephesians 4:30
Romans 8:14
“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” – Romans 8:14
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Finding Joy in Service
As we strive to please God, we are reminded that finding joy in service is a key element. Serving others wholeheartedly is one of the most beautiful expressions of our faith and love for God. It’s a reminder that we should not seek recognition from men, but we should focus on bringing joy to God’s heart as we serve our neighbors. This selflessness helps us grow closer to our Creator.
Mark 10:45
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” – Matthew 25:40
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Building Godly Friendships
Surrounding ourselves with like-minded friends helps us to please God in our lives. Building godly friendships is crucial as we encourage each other to grow in faith and not conform to worldly expectations. Together, we can uplift one another, reminding ourselves of the purpose we have in serving God and not seeking approval from people.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Staying Focused on Eternity
Focusing on eternity shifts our perspective from temporary praise to constant striving for God’s approval. It reminds us that this world is not our home, and what truly matters is how we live today in light of God’s eternal truth. By keeping our eyes on what God has prepared for us, we remain grounded, allowing us to make choices that please Him rather than swayed by fleeting opinions.
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
2 Corinthians 4:18
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:18
Revelation 22:12
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” – Revelation 22:12
Matthew 6:20-21
“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:20-21
Philippians 3:20
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20
Final Thoughts
Pleasing God rather than man is a powerful theme weaves through Scripture. As we remembered, our primary focus should always be on seeking His approval, walking in faith, and embracing His love. It’s important that we lean on God’s strength, live by His commands, and surround ourselves with those who uplift us in faith. In doing so, we can find joy in service and stay focused on the eternal promises made to us. Together, we can inspire one another to live lives that bring honor to our Creator, fulfilling our purpose as His beloved children.
May we always strive to please God and not man, growing in our faith and love for Him.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4