And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28
Faith and Trust in God
When we think about what pleases God, we often come back to the importance of faith and trust. As a community, we share a belief that faith isn’t just a feeling but a choice we make every day. When we trust God, we acknowledge His sovereignty in our lives. Our faith reflects our relationship with Him and it is what brings joy to His heart. God delights in a people who have unwavering faith in His plans. By aligning our hearts with God and trusting in Him, we open the door to His blessings. Each small act of faith builds a profound impact in our relationship with Him. Let us remind one another that when we put our trust in God, we are pleasing Him in ways that we may never fully understand.
Hebrews 11:6
And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. – Hebrews 11:6
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. – Proverbs 3:5
Psalms 147:11
The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love. – Psalms 147:11
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. – Matthew 21:22
James 1:6
But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. – James 1:6
Obedience to God’s Commands
As we reflect on what pleases God, we must recognize obedience as a key element. Following God’s commands is not merely about adhering to a set of rules, but it shows our love and commitment to Him. When we obey, we demonstrate that we trust His wisdom and authority over our lives. There is beauty in living according to His word, as each command is meant for our good. In our community, we should hold each other accountable in our pursuit of obeying God. Together, we can inspire one another to carry out the great commissions God has laid before us, living in harmony with His teachings and pleasing Him in the process.
John 14:15
If you love me, keep my commands. – John 14:15
1 John 2:3
We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. – 1 John 2:3
Acts 5:29
Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!” – Acts 5:29
Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship. – Romans 12:1
James 1:22
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. – James 1:22
Acts of Kindness and Love
Our acts of kindness and love are powerful expressions of our faith. When we demonstrate Christ-like love toward others, we reveal the nature of God. We should be mindful that God takes pleasure in seeing His people serve one another with genuine hearts. Each small deed, no matter how insignificant, contributes to reflecting God’s love in our communities. Together, we can build stronger bonds through our shared commitment to encouraging one another and showing love. It fills God’s heart with joy to see us live out His teachings through loving actions. When kindness flows from us, we reflect the love of Christ, and that is truly pleasing to God.
Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. – Colossians 3:23
Galatians 5:13
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. – Galatians 5:13
Matthew 25:40
The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
Romans 13:10
Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. – Romans 13:10
1 Peter 4:10
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. – 1 Peter 4:10
A Heart of Gratitude
Gratitude is a posture of the heart that brings us closer to God. When we are thankful, we recognize His goodness and provision in our lives. God delights in our thankfulness and it ignites a spirit of joy both in us and around us. By expressing gratitude, we acknowledge all He has done for us and, in turn, it encourages us to reflect that gratitude through our words and actions. We should not see gratitude as simply a response to what we have received but as a continuous attitude that aligns our hearts with His. In our gatherings, let’s remind each other of the gift of gratitude and how it pleases our God.
Psalms 107:1
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. – Psalms 107:1
Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. – Colossians 3:15
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Psalms 50:14
Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High. – Psalms 50:14
Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. – Philippians 4:6
Living Righteously
Living righteously means striving to align ourselves with God’s holiness. When we commit to living upright lives, we embody the values and teachings that God cherishes. Our pursuit of righteousness should be an active part of our faith walk, bringing us closer to God. It involves recognizing our shortcomings and allowing God to transform us. Together, we can inspire one another to reject sin and instead, live exemplary lives in reflection of Christ. This commitment is not merely about avoidance but actively choosing to pursue goodness. When we seek righteousness, God is pleased as He sees our efforts to reflect Him in a world that needs His light.
Proverbs 21:21
Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor. – Proverbs 21:21
2 Timothy 2:22
Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. – 2 Timothy 2:22
Psalms 1:1-2
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. – Psalms 1:1-2
1 John 3:7
Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. – 1 John 3:7
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
Seeking God with All Our Hearts
Searching for God with all our hearts is one of the most essential ways to cultivate a relationship that pleases Him. God desires us to pursue Him wholeheartedly, to be intentional in our prayers, and to earnestly seek His presence in our lives. When we do this collectively, as a community of believers, we strengthen each other’s faith. Together, we can lift one another up in prayer, engage in scripture, and encourage spiritual growth. God takes great pleasure in our desire to draw near to Him and promises that when we seek Him, we will find Him. Let’s remind one another of the importance of this journey and how it delights God.
Jeremiah 29:13
You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. – Jeremiah 29:13
Psalms 9:10
Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. – Psalms 9:10
Matthew 7:7
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. – Matthew 7:7
Isaiah 55:6
Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. – Isaiah 55:6
Hebrews 11:6
And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. – Hebrews 11:6
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on what pleases God, we recognize the importance of faith, obedience, love, and gratitude in our lives. Each aspect is interconnected and vital for drawing closer to Him. We realize that living according to His ways brings joy, not just to us but to Him as well. Our community should nurture this understanding, encouraging one another to remain faithful in our pursuit of God. Acting with kindness and mercy shines a light on Christ’s love, reflecting His character. Through righteousness, we fulfill our call as His followers, aiming to live lives that honor Him.
Let’s make a conscious effort to transform our hearts to please God in all we do. Each day is an opportunity to grow closer to Him. We can inspire each other as we strive to be more like Christ. Together, let’s embrace His teachings, uplift one another, and be filled with gratitude for His blessings. God is pleased when we honor Him through our actions, faith, and heartfelt prayers. Our trust and love for Him bring unity, hope, and joy.
As we journey forward, let us pray and explore more topics to deepen our understanding of God’s word. We can read more about “what keeps us safe in God” or how to “find freedom in Christ.” Each passage reveals more of His heart for us.