PLEASING GOD IN ALL THINGS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Colossians 1:10
Supporting Texts: 1 Thessalonians 4:1, Hebrews 13:16, Romans 12:1-2, 2 Corinthians 5:9, John 8:29
INTRODUCTION:
In a world where people are often more concerned with pleasing men, building reputations, and seeking validation from society, the believer is called to a higher standard—to live a life that is pleasing to God in all things. Our ultimate aim must not be to satisfy our flesh or impress others, but to bring joy to the heart of our Heavenly Father by our conduct, speech, and choices.
Pleasing God is not just about doing spiritual activities; it is about cultivating a heart that delights in obedience and honouring Him in every area of life. God is not impressed by performance without purity or routine without reverence. He searches the heart and desires that our entire being reflects our love and devotion to Him.
This message challenges us to evaluate whether our lives truly reflect what is acceptable and pleasing to God. It is a call to walk worthy of the Lord and to live intentionally in alignment with His will and purpose.
1. PLEASE GOD THROUGH A FRUITFUL LIFE
Living to please God must be evident through the fruit we bear in our character and service.
a) Bear the fruit of righteousness (Philippians 1:11):
A life that pleases God is marked by righteousness—living according to His standards, not the world’s.
b) Produce good works that glorify God (Matthew 5:16):
God is pleased when our actions reflect His love and draw others to Him through our good deeds.
c) Grow in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:10):
Pleasing God requires continual growth in our understanding of His Word and His ways.
d) Let your light shine in every environment (Ephesians 5:8-10):
A life that consistently displays godly character in private and public is pleasing to God.
Biblical Example: Jesus said in John 8:29, “I always do those things that please Him.” His entire life was fruitful and aligned with the Father’s will.
2. PLEASE GOD BY WALKING IN OBEDIENCE
Obedience is one of the clearest indicators of a heart devoted to pleasing God.
a) Obey God’s commands even when it’s uncomfortable (Genesis 22:1-3):
Obedience that pleases God often requires personal sacrifice and total trust in His plan.
b) Avoid compromise and stand for truth (Daniel 1:8):
Choosing to obey God instead of blending in with ungodly standards honours Him.
c) Live a life of submission to His will (Romans 12:2):
Pleasing God means aligning our desires with His and allowing Him to direct our paths.
d) Reject disobedience and rebellion (1 Samuel 15:22):
God delights in obedience more than sacrifice; rebellion grieves His heart.
Biblical Example: Abraham’s willingness to offer Isaac was an act of obedience that pleased God (Genesis 22:12).
3. PLEASE GOD THROUGH FAITH AND TRUST
Faith is a non-negotiable requirement to live a life pleasing to God.
a) Believe that He is and that He rewards (Hebrews 11:6):
Without faith, it is impossible to please God; we must trust His nature and promises.
b) Walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7):
A faith-led life pleases God more than one led by human logic or fear.
c) Trust God in trials and uncertain seasons (James 1:2-4):
Pleasing God involves trusting Him even when His plans are not immediately clear.
d) Speak and act in faith (Mark 11:22-24):
God is honoured when we make declarations and take steps based on our faith in Him.
Biblical Example: Enoch had this testimony—that he pleased God because he walked in faith (Hebrews 11:5).
4. PLEASE GOD THROUGH A LIFE OF WORSHIP AND SACRIFICE
Worship is not just singing; it is a life offered completely to God.
a) Present your body as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1):
Our lifestyle, including our habits and disciplines, should honour God.
b) Offer praise and thanksgiving continually (Hebrews 13:15):
God is pleased with hearts that express gratitude and adore Him.
c) Give generously and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7):
Sacrificial giving from a joyful heart pleases God.
d) Use your gifts to serve others (1 Peter 4:10-11):
Serving others in humility and love is a form of worship that pleases God.
Biblical Example: The woman who poured perfume on Jesus' feet gave sacrificially, and it was pleasing to Him (Luke 7:37-38).
5. PLEASE GOD BY LOVING OTHERS GENUINELY
Love is central to the life that brings joy to God.
a) Love without hypocrisy (Romans 12:9):
Real love is not fake or selfish; it reflects God’s nature.
b) Forgive and bear with one another (Colossians 3:13):
Holding grudges displeases God, but forgiveness mirrors His heart.
c) Serve one another humbly (Galatians 5:13):
God is pleased when we prefer others above ourselves in service.
d) Speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15):
Pleasing God means maintaining both truth and compassion in our communication.
Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan’s act of compassion pleased God more than religious rituals (Luke 10:33-37).
CONCLUSION:
Pleasing God is not a part-time task; it is the goal of our entire life. From the way we talk to the way we live, serve, give, love, and obey—everything must be motivated by the desire to bring delight to our Heavenly Father. As you examine your life today, ask yourself: “Is God pleased with me?” If not, commit to change, grow, and realign your heart with His will.
Remember, when you please God, He makes even your enemies to be at peace with you (Proverbs 16:7). You may not please everyone around you, but if your ways please the Lord, you will enjoy His favour, presence, and reward.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to live a life that pleases You daily.
2. Father, help me bear fruits that glorify Your name.
3. Remove every form of disobedience from my life.
4. Let my faith in You grow stronger every day.
5. Teach me to offer true worship that pleases You.
6. Purge my heart of selfishness and pride.
7. Help me to love others sincerely and forgive freely.
8. Guide my steps to make wise decisions.
9. Let my life reflect Your glory in every area.
10. Fill me with the Holy Spirit to live a pleasing life.
