Q: I want to please God in my life. How do I know where to begin?
A: In Colossians, we discover the starting point for a life that pleases God. Paul writes:
“We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way…” (Colossians 1:9-10)
Yes, Paul says that pleasing God comes through prayer—“continually asking” Him for the very thing He is so eager to provide: the power of the Spirit!
Q: How do I show care and consideration for the feelings of others but still live to please God?
A:In our world, there are two kinds of people: those who are devoted to God and want to please Him, and those who live for themselves without interest in pleasing God at all.
Inevitably, when we’re in family, friendship or workplace relationships with a mixture of such people, it can lead to tension.
At the turn of this new year, I’d encourage you to pray for those relationships in your life where this kind of tension is likely to arise. And I’d encourage you to make these three Scriptures part of your New Year’s Resolution as 2022 commences…
First, like Peter and the other apostles, resolve to “obey God rather than human beings” in the days ahead (Acts 5:29).
Second, be sure to “make it [your] goal to please [God]” at all times and in all situations (2 Corinthians 5:9).
And third, in all your interactions with others, remember to speak and act “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).