No More People-Pleasing
Have you ever felt drained by the constant need to make everyone happy? If you're like me, you might have spent a lot of time trying to meet the expectations of others—always saying "yes," even when your heart says "no." For years, I struggled with people-pleasing. I wanted to be liked, to avoid conflict, and to keep the peace. But over time, I realized how exhausting it was, and how much it kept me from living the life GOD had planned for me.
The Pressure of Always Pleasing
People-pleasing isn’t just about saying “yes” to favors or requests; it’s a mindset that leads you to put others’ needs above your own, even at the cost of your own well-being. It can feel like you're constantly walking on eggshells, trying to keep everyone happy, but at the end of the day, you’re left feeling empty, resentful, and tired.
Jesus teaches us in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This is the rest I was searching for—the kind that comes from knowing I don’t have to live for others’ approval, but for GOD’s.
The Cost of People-Pleasing
What I didn’t realize at the time was how much people-pleasing was costing me. It drained my energy, my time, and even my sense of self. I was so focused on making sure everyone else was happy that I lost sight of my own needs and desires. I became a version of myself that was shaped by what others expected, not by who I truly was in GOD.
In Galatians 1:10, Paul says, “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of GOD? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” This verse hit me hard. I realized that in my desire to please others, I was losing sight of my purpose as a servant of Christ. My true calling is to live for GOD, not to meet every expectation of the people around me.
Letting Go of the Need to Please
Breaking free from people-pleasing is not easy. It takes time, self-awareness, and a willingness to say “no” when necessary. But it’s worth it. When we stop trying to please everyone, we open the door for GOD to shape our lives in ways that honor Him.
In Psalm 139:14, it says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” We don’t need to be anyone other than who GOD created us to be. When we embrace our true selves, we start to live more authentically and find peace in knowing that we are loved by GOD, just as we are.
Finding Freedom in GOD's Approval
The good news is that we don’t have to live for the approval of others. GOD already approves of us. He created us with purpose and loves us unconditionally. When we seek His approval above all else, we can let go of the pressure to please everyone around us.
I’ve learned to listen to GOD’s voice more than the opinions of others. I’ve learned to say “no” when I need to and to protect my peace. And as I’ve let go of people-pleasing, I’ve found more freedom, joy, and rest in living for Him.
Call to Action
If you’re tired of trying to please everyone, I encourage you to take a step back and ask yourself: “Am I living for others’ approval, or am I living for GOD’s?” Trust that GOD sees you, loves you, and has a purpose for your life. Let go of the burden of people-pleasing, and embrace the freedom that comes from living for His approval. You are enough, just as you are.