Key Scripture:
“When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” – Proverbs 16:7 (KJV)
Introduction: Living to Please God
In a world filled with distractions, self-gratification, and the pursuit of human approval, living a life that pleases God is a divine calling for every believer. The Bible makes it clear that God is not impressed by outward show or religious performance—He looks at the heart. Pleasing God is not about perfection, but about walking in faith, love, obedience, and holiness.
1. A Life of Faith
Hebrews 11:6 – “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”
God is pleased when we trust Him. Faith shows our dependence on His Word, His promises, and His timing. A life that pleases God is built on absolute trust in who He is, even when circumstances are unclear.
2. A Life of Obedience
John 14:15 – “If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
1 Samuel 15:22 – “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”
Obedience to God’s Word demonstrates love and reverence for Him. A disobedient heart grieves the Spirit, but one that delights in God’s commandments brings Him joy.
3. A Life of Holiness
1 Peter 1:15-16 – “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
God is holy and calls His children to reflect that holiness in conduct, thought, and speech. Holiness is not religious piety, but a lifestyle separated from sin and dedicated to God’s purposes.
4. A Life of Love
Matthew 22:37-39 – “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart… And… Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”
1 John 4:8 – “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”
Love is the heartbeat of a life that pleases God. Love for God is shown in worship, devotion, and obedience. Love for others reflects God’s character and fulfills His law.
4. A Life of Love
Matthew 22:37-39 – “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart… And… Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”
1 John 4:8 – “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”
Love is the heartbeat of a life that pleases God. Love for God is shown in worship, devotion, and obedience. Love for others reflects God’s character and fulfills His law.
5. A Life of Humility
Micah 6:8 – “He hath shewed thee… what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”
James 4:6 – “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
Pleasing God requires a heart free from pride, boasting, and self-sufficiency. God draws near to the humble and exalts them in due season.
6. A Life of Righteousness
Romans 14:17-18 – “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God…”
Righteous living—walking in integrity and truth—brings joy to God. It is not self-righteousness, but Christ’s righteousness working through us.
7. A Life of Spiritual Fruitfulness
John 15:8 – “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.”
Bearing the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, etc.—is evidence of a life rooted in God. God delights in His children being spiritually productive.
8. A Life of Worship and Thanksgiving
Psalm 147:11 – “The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.”
Hebrews 13:15-16 – “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually… for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
Gratitude, praise, and reverent worship are pleasing aromas before the Lord. He seeks worshippers who worship in spirit and in truth.
Conclusion: Walk Worthy of the Lord
Colossians 1:10 – “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.”
Pleasing God is not a momentary action but a lifelong pursuit. It is a daily decision to walk in the Spirit, abide in Christ, and yield to His will. May we live each day not for applause from men, but for the approval of Heaven.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I desire to live a life that pleases You. Help me walk by faith, love as You love, obey Your Word, and pursue holiness. Teach me to bear fruit, live humbly, and honor You with all I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
