For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:10)
One of the things that can quietly control a person’s life is the desire to please everybody. You can spend so much energy trying to make everyone happy that you eventually lose sight of what God has called you to do. The Christian life requires courage to follow the Word of God even when everyone does not understand or approve of your choices.
This does not mean that Christians should be rude, insensitive, or careless about other people’s feelings. We are called to walk in love. But walking in love is not the same as being controlled by people’s opinions. Sometimes you have to say no. Sometimes you have to establish boundaries. Sometimes you have to make the right decision even when someone is disappointed with you.
Remember that your life is ultimately accountable to God. People may have opinions about your decisions, your calling, your service, your progress, or your choices, but they are not the Lord of your life. Lord Jesus Christ is. Let the Word of God become your standard. Let the Holy Spirit guide you. Don’t exchange obedience to God for temporary approval from people.
You are not required to become everything everybody wants you to be. You are called to become everything God has designed you to be. Serve people in love, but don’t live for their applause. Be kind without being controlled. Be generous without being manipulated. Be humble without losing your identity in Christ. That’s the excellent way of life in Christ.
Prayer:
Dear Father, I thank You because my life belongs to You. Thank You for giving me the wisdom to walk in love without being controlled by the opinions of people. Thank You for giving me courage, wisdom, and spiritual discernment to please You above all else. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.