Living A Life That Pleases God

LIVING A LIFE THAT PLEASES GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Colossians 1:10

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 11:5-6, 1 Thessalonians 4:1, Romans 12:1-2, Micah 6:6-8, 2 Corinthians 5:9

INTRODUCTION:

The ultimate goal of every believer should be to live a life that pleases God. It is not about impressing people or fulfilling religious rituals, but about living in such a way that our thoughts, words, and actions bring joy to the heart of our Father. God is not just interested in what we do; He is interested in why and how we do it.

Living a life that pleases God involves walking in obedience to His Word, living by faith, and yielding to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Bible makes it clear that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6), and that we must be transformed in our thinking and lifestyle in order to know and do His will.

In this sermon, we will explore what it truly means to live a life that pleases God and how to cultivate such a life daily.

1. A LIFE THAT PLEASES GOD IS ROOTED IN FAITH

Pleasing God starts with believing Him and trusting in His promises, even when we cannot see the full picture.

a) Faith is the foundation of a God-pleasing life (Hebrews 11:6):

Without faith, it is impossible to please God. Faith shows that we trust Him above our senses or circumstances.

b) Faith enables obedience to God's instructions (Genesis 6:22):

Noah pleased God by acting on His Word, even when it didn’t make sense.

c) Faith must be active and growing (James 2:26):

It is not enough to say we believe—our faith must produce fruit in our lives.

d) Faith pleases God because it honours His character (Romans 4:20-21):

Abraham was fully persuaded that God would do what He promised.

Biblical Example: Enoch walked with God by faith and pleased Him so much that God took him (Hebrews 11:5).

2. A LIFE THAT PLEASES GOD IS A LIFE OF OBEDIENCE

God delights in those who take His Word seriously and follow it wholeheartedly.

a) Obedience is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22):

God wants our hearts, not just our outward offerings.

b) Loving God means keeping His commandments (John 14:15):

We demonstrate our love by doing what He commands.

c) Obedience brings us into alignment with God's will (Matthew 7:21):

It’s not just about saying “Lord, Lord,” but doing what He says.

d) Obedience positions us for divine reward (Deuteronomy 28:1-2):

When we obey, blessings follow us.

Biblical Example: Jesus was obedient unto death, and God highly exalted Him (Philippians 2:8-9).

3. A LIFE THAT PLEASES GOD IS CHARACTERISED BY HOLINESS

God calls us to be holy as He is holy. Holiness is not legalism but a lifestyle that reflects God’s nature.

a) Holiness sets us apart for God's use (2 Timothy 2:21):

We become vessels of honour, fit for the Master’s work.

b) Holiness affects our thoughts, speech, and actions (1 Peter 1:15):

Every area of our lives must reflect God’s purity.

c) Holiness invites intimacy with God (Psalm 24:3-4):

Only those with clean hands and pure hearts can ascend to God’s presence.

d) Holiness makes us shine as lights in a dark world (Philippians 2:15):

Our lives become a testimony to unbelievers.

Biblical Example: Joseph pleased God by maintaining purity and integrity, even when tempted (Genesis 39:7-12).

4. A LIFE THAT PLEASES GOD IS LIVED IN LOVE AND HUMILITY

Love and humility are the fragrance of a life that honours God.

a) Love fulfils the law of God (Romans 13:10):

When we walk in love, we fulfil the core of God’s expectations.

b) Love is the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-40):

Loving God and our neighbour sums up all other commandments.

c) Humility invites divine promotion (James 4:6):

God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

d) God is pleased when we treat others with kindness and respect (Micah 6:8):

What God requires is to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.

Biblical Example: Jesus washed His disciples’ feet to model humility and love (John 13:12-17).

5. A LIFE THAT PLEASES GOD IS FOCUSED ON ETERNAL PURPOSES

God is pleased when we live with eternity in view, not just earthly success.

a) Our aim must be to please Him always (2 Corinthians 5:9):

Whether in life or death, our desire must be to honour Him.

b) We must invest in what has eternal value (Matthew 6:19-20):

Heavenly rewards await those who live for God.

c) We must be faithful stewards of our time, talents, and treasures (1 Peter 4:10):

God expects us to serve Him and others with what He has given us.

d) Living with purpose gives our life meaning and joy (Philippians 3:14):

We press toward the mark for the prize of our heavenly calling.