DAY 66 – GOD OR MEN PLEASER?
“But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.” 1 Thessalonians 2:4
One of the most subtle challenges for believers especially those in leadership is the temptation to seek validation and approval from people rather than God. Leaders who satisfy the expectations of others are usually celebrated, while those who stand by truth, even for the right reasons, are often criticized.
Because of this, many perfect the art of pleasing people to maintain popularity, influence, and comfort. But Scripture calls us to a different standard. Paul reminds us that every opportunity to lead, speak, or influence is a divine trust and our allegiance must be to God alone.
God tests our hearts, weighs our motives, and watches our choices. People may see actions, but God sees intention. Therefore, a believer must desire above all to please God, who is the true promoter and judge of all:
“For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: He putteth down one, and setteth up another.” Psalm 75:6–7
Biblical history shows the consequences of choosing people over God:
- Saul lost his throne because he feared the people more than God (1 Sam. 15).
- Balaam nearly destroyed himself because of greed and the desire for earthly rewards (Num. 22).
- Aaron created a golden calf to please the crowd (Exodus 32).
- Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for the approval of ungodly men.
Each one compromised divine purpose to satisfy human expectations.
People-pleasing leads to compromise, inconsistency, eye service, and disobedience. It blinds the heart, destroys integrity, and opposes the will of God. This is why Paul boldly declares:
“For if I still pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10
Beloved, your purpose, identity, promotion, and destiny come from God not from people. As Scripture affirms:
“We ought to obey God rather than men.” Acts 5:29
PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
I thank You for the privilege of serving and representing You on the earth. Deliver me from every desire to please people at the expense of Your will. Purify my heart, align my motives with Yours, and give me the courage to obey You even when it is difficult. Strengthen me to stand firm in righteousness, truth, and integrity. May my life continually honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, purify my heart and remove every desire to please people above pleasing You.
2. Lord, deliver me from fear of man and give me boldness to stand for truth at all times.
3. Holy Spirit, expose and uproot every hidden motive in my heart that does not align with Your will.
4. Father, empower me to walk in obedience and integrity, regardless of public opinion.
5. Lord, disconnect me from relationships that pressure me to compromise my faith.
6. Father, help me to always remember that my promotion and destiny come from You alone.
7. O Lord, renew my mind and give me the strength to honor You in every decision I make.
8. Every spirit of compromise, insincerity, and eye service be destroyed in my life in Jesus’ name.
9. Father, make me a faithful servant who represents Your heart in word and deed.
10. Lord, let my life bring You glory, and let Your purpose prevail over every human expectation.
DECLARATION
I declare that I am a God pleaser, not a man-pleaser.
My heart is aligned with God’s will.
I walk in truth, boldness, and integrity.
No manipulation or pressure will pull me into compromise.
My promotion comes from God alone.
I live to honor Him, and I will fulfill my divine purpose.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.