God Pleasers (Sermon Acts 7:8)

In Paul's admonition to slaves (Eph. 6:5-6) he warns them about being people pleasers-something all of us are susceptible to. Yet, our focus should be upon pleasing God, not men. So how do we please God? Well, let's first consider how God looks at us.

The prophet Isaiah tells us: "We have all become like one who is unclean,and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment." (64:6) Wow! The most self-sacrificing act of service is like a polluted, unclean garment. In other words, it is unacceptable to the Lord. Why? Because, even in our best moments we fall short of the glory of God. Because of our sinful nature, we are not capable of a completely righteous and holy act. We are unaware of our condition because we compare ourselves with other people. Gray doesn't look so dark when you put it up against pitch black, but compare it with white and you gain a whole new perspective. So how do we please God?

God's explanation of His choice of kings helps us to understand how God looks at us: "For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." (1 Sam 16:7) If we please God, it will not be because of any act we have done, but because of our heart. The Bible says: "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." (Heb 11:6) And Paul wrote to the Galatians: "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love." (Gal 5:6)

How can we please God? We must believe in Him and love Him. What about works? If you love the Lord and trust in Him works will follow, but it is your faith and love that will please God. May you commit today to please the Lord, first and foremost in your life.