Galatians 1:10
“For am I seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.”
A christian rock group named Petra had a song called, God Pleaser. This was in the 80’s and 90’s. Today’s passage may be the verse that inspired it. There is quite a bit of pressure to be a man pleaser. Much of our culture expects conformity. Any deviation outside of the norms invites ridicule.
Our culture mocks those of faith. One can be a believer, but can’t be too serious about it. If so, they will be called many names: extremist, unscientific, narrow minded, hater and so on.
What are we to do? First off, we need to heed Paul’s advice to live at peace with everyone, if it be possible (Romans 12:18). We shouldn’t be inviting trouble. Our stands are only to be taken when necessary.
Something that’s important to our family is saying grace at meal times. If we are not the hosts, we will say it to ourselves. However, if we are hosting, then we will bow our heads for grace. Most are ok with this, but others are not. That’s ok. Some may choose not to associate with us for that reason. We’re ok with that stand. In this case, we choose to be God pleasers.
Other issues arise out of random circumstances. A difficult example is when Peter was interrogated at the arrest of Jesus. Questions were directed at him which he wasn’t ready for. An hour earlier, he was ready to die for the Lord (the sword attach), but Jesus intervened and stopped him. So Peter was already off balance. His judgement proved wrong. Now, when questioned, he denies the Lord. At times it’s uncomfortable to be a God pleaser.
Peter needed to learned to rely on God, not his own resolve. Jesus provides the strategy in Matthew 10:19, “But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say.” A good prayer is “Lord, give us the courage and the words to say.”
Peter was as strong and confident as they come. He folded. The message is to trust in the Lord.
Many want to be God pleasers, it gets a little uncomfortable at times. We need Him. It also helps to know we are part of a team that faces the same challenges, the church. We learn to encourage one another. Hebrews 3:13a says, ‘But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “Today,”‘.
Lord, help us to be those that please You. Help us to rest in the fact that You will give us the courage and the words when needed.