“Be not afraid of them [their faces], for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.”
Jeremiah 1:8 AMPC

People-pleasing is a real enemy. It kills identity. Those who walk in it often overthink, over-apologize, over-explain, and constantly seek approval and validation from others.
This behavior is deeply rooted in fear—fear of people, fear of their opinions, fear of conflict, fear of rejection, fear of saying no—and it ultimately places more value on the happiness of others than the truth of who God created us to be.
In Jeremiah 1:8, the Lord calls Jeremiah to speak His message to Israel. God encourages him not to fear people because Jeremiah was chosen to be God’s mouthpiece.
Jeremiah was known as the weeping prophet because his writings reveal deep sorrow and anguish, reflecting his meek spirit.
Yet God strengthened him—reminding him not to grow weary or shrink back, because fear can distract, manipulate, and derail purpose.
Paul, on the other hand, was bold and confident in his calling. He was dealing with people infiltrated by false teaching and distorted doctrine.
“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 ESV
Paul stood firm in the truth and corrected anyone who twisted the gospel. While doing God’s work, some tried to discredit his past—reminding others of how he once persecuted Christians. They attempted to manipulate minds and discredit the message he carried, but Paul refused to be shaken. He even declared that if even an angel preached another gospel, they should be cursed.
Paul was not moved by human opinions. His confidence was rooted in truth—not in pleasing people.
Scripture is clear: if we live to please man, we cannot be servants of Christ.
The Word of God calls us to rise in boldness and walk in obedience to what Jesus expects—not what people demand. We are called to live, love, and serve God’s way—not the world’s way.
Jesus was compassionate, but He never compromised.
Jesus was kind, yet He never allowed others to take advantage of Him.
Jesus humbled Himself to wash feet, yet He boldly rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind me, Satan,” when his words opposed the will of God.
Jesus loved humanity enough to die for them, yet He overturned tables when His Father’s house was corrupted.
Do not allow anyone to manipulate or deceive you into choosing worldly approval over godly obedience. God’s commandment is clear: love God first, then your neighbor. It is not reversed.
So the question remains—will you live as a slave to people’s expectations, or as a servant of God?
May the Holy Spirit give you boldness to break free from people-pleasing and live to please God alone.
Prayer
Lord, strengthen my heart to choose Your approval over the approval of people. Remove every fear, insecurity, and pressure that keeps me bound. Fill me with boldness, confidence, and wisdom to walk in truth. Help me honor You in my words, decisions, and actions. In Jesus’ name, Amen.








