Pleasing God, Not People

As we learn the freedom of pleasing God, not people, Jeremiah 40 shows that lasting confidence comes when we obey His call regardless of criticism, rejection, or shifting public opinion.

“I release you today … If it seems good to you to come with me to Babylon, come, and I will look after you well, but if it seems wrong … do not come … go wherever you think it good and right to go” (Jeremiah 40:4).

“What is your greatest fear in your job?” When Americans were asked this, some revealed that it was how coworkers perceived them. They were more concerned about this than about doing their jobs or their health or finances.

As this survey revealed, our focus is often dominated by thoughts about others. Are we popular? Accepted? Even many believers are more concerned about what others think than about pleasing God.

Perhaps no one faced these issues more than Jeremiah. He’d been called by God and given a message. But his obedience often made him unpopular.

He had to tell God’s people that the Lord wanted them to submit to Babylon. Accused of being a traitor, he was threatened and imprisoned. But his words proved true.

In the days that followed, Jeremiah was hated and distrusted by his own people but honored by their enemies. Yet he knew he was obeying God.

Through this intense difficulty, Jeremiah learned to obey God—regardless of people’s reactions. Refusing to compromise, he was faithful to God’s call.

Think about Jeremiah as you face difficult circumstances. Conflicts, disagreements, and differences of opinion are inevitable—but make sure God is pleased with you. Make it your priority to obey Him and fulfill His call on your life.

Reflection Question: Whose approval matters most to you?