Folks, can we have an honest conversation about people-pleasing? I spent years trying to make everyone happy – in business, in ministry, even at home. Let me tell you, it’s a burden that’ll wear you down faster than a marathon runner in flip-flops.
Remember when I was running the Sextant Restaurant? I tried to be everything to everyone – manager, chef, accountant, therapist – you name it. I was so busy trying to please everyone that I forgot to listen to what God was actually calling me to be. Sound familiar to anyone?
Here’s the thing: when we’re constantly trying to please people, we’re usually doing it at the expense of pleasing God. Jesus wasn’t a people-pleaser. He spoke truth, showed love, but wasn’t afraid to flip some tables when necessary.
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10
Let me share something personal. When we started Standing Stone Ministry, I initially worried about what other ministry leaders would think. Would they see it as criticism of their leadership? Would they feel threatened? But God showed me that focusing on pleasing Him would lead to serving others better.
Breaking free from people-pleasing starts with asking yourself whose approval you’re really seeking. Start your day in prayer, asking God to guide your decisions. Learn to say “no” to good things so you can say “yes” to God things. Set healthy boundaries and stick to them. Find people who’ll hold you accountable and call you out when you’re falling into the people-pleasing trap.
Take a moment and think about what drives your need to please others. How has it affected your ministry decisions? Where do you need to start saying “no”? What would change if you focused solely on pleasing God?
This week, I challenge you to identify one area where you’re people-pleasing rather than God-pleasing. Make one concrete change and share your experience with us. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.