People pleasing is a phenomenon that many encounter on a daily basis, for example when in conversation, doing activities together with friends or in the workplace. It is defined as behaviour that seeks to obtain approval from others regardless of one’s own feelings and thoughts. People pleasing is often driven by the desire to be liked, to fit in and to be accepted. It also might be motivated by the need to receive love from others or to avoid conflict or rejection.
The Bible does not directly address the issue of people pleasing, but it does emphasize the importance of being humble and forgiving, as well as loving your neighbor. Philippians 2:3-8 calls on believers to put others first, acting with humility and gentleness, to look out for their neighbour’s interests, instead of their own.
The Bible also cautions against trying to please everyone and being influenced by the opinions of others. Colossians 3:23-24 states that believers should work with all their heart, as if they are working for the Lord – not simply trying to please people. In addition, Matthew 10:28 says that it is important to fear God, not other people.
People pleasing can be a natural human trait; however, if taken to extreme or unhealthy levels, it can result in feelings of low self-esteem, self-doubt, hesitation, and depression. To truly experience mental and spiritual fulfilment, it is important to learn to trust in your own judgement and be satisfied withGod. Doing so will allow a person to live a meaningful and confident life.
Honesty
The Bible also speaks highly of honesty as a virtue. Proverbs 12:22 tells us that being truthful is a sign of integrity, while lying lips are an abomination to God. Furthermore, others can sense when we lack authenticity, making it much harder to truly connect with them. We should strive to exhibit authenticity and humility in our words and actions, feeling comfortable in our own skin and learning to trust our instincts and beliefs.
In order to avoid engaging in people-pleasing behaviour, it can be beneficial to practice self-awareness. Knowing our own strengths and weaknesses and being mindful of our thoughts and feelings is an important part of keeping our emotional wellbeing in balance. It can also give us the tools to better resist a people-pleasing impulse. In addition, Psalm 103:1-5 advises us to bless the Lord and to give thanks for His goodness and mercy.
Living a life of purpose and meaning is about contentment, rather than approval-seeking. We need to be able to trust in our own judgement and make decisions according to what we believe is right and not based on the opinions of others. People pleasing can be detrimental to mental health, and so we should strive to be authentic, honest and humble.
Encouragement From Others
The Bible cautions us against trying to please everyone, but encourages us to be kind and thoughtful toward others. Romans 12:10-13 encourages us not to become conceited and to extend hospitality to strangers. This leads to better relationships and a more generous attitude. We should strive to be encouraging and supportive of those we encounter, while still remaining firm in our own beliefs and principles.
Also, 1 Thessalonians 5:11 commands believers to edify one another with words of encouragement. It is important to extend words of kindness and positivity to those we encounter, often in order to stay connected to the community. We should also remain mindful not to compromise our own values in any way for the sake of another person’s approval.
Living a life of faith is full of choices and decisions. We need to be mindful not to give in to peer pressure or be influenced by the expectations of others in order to maintain healthy mental wellbeing. People pleasing can also lead to feelings of insecurity or discomfort in our own skin. Rather, the Bible guides us to remain true to ourselves, to be kind, encouraging and humble.
Personal Values Are Paramount
The Bible encourages us to remain firm in our beliefs, to remain true to our moral standards and to build healthy relationships by being honest and supportive of others. The Bible also cautions us against pleasing others at any cost, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or insecurity. We should strive to stay true to ourselves, even when it is not easy to do so, in order to live a meaningful and authentic life.
Rather than trying to appease people, focus your attention on the things that matter to you, such as your own values, beliefs, and relationships. When we trust in ourselves and understand our own capabilities, it can be a source of strength and comfort. The Bible encourages us to live by our principles and to serve God by trusting in Him and being mindful of his commands.
Furthermore, 1 Thessalonians 5:15 suggests that encouraging one another and building one another up is an important way to share the love of God. As believers, we should not be hateful or judgemental. Above all, it is important to protect ourselves and our values and not to let peer pressure or the expectations of others dictate our lives.
Self Respect and Dignity
Living an honest and humble life as a believer is an important part of living a meaningful life. It is important to be true to oneself and to listen to one’s own feelings and convictions. We should always be mindful of our own values, beliefs, and worth. It is essential to remember that other people cannot grant our value or worth, that must come from the knowledge that God loves us unconditionally.
The Bible also cautions us against excessive worrying and fretting over external opinions. Matthew 6:25-34 warns us that attachment to worldly possessions and approval of others can lead to fear and anxiety. We should strive to live with courage, strength and trust in God’s plan for our lives.
Collossians 3:23-24 calls on believers to act with integrity by ignoring their own interests in favour of loving their neighbour and to work heartily as if they are working for the Lord. We should focus on doing our best, while recognizing our own callings, values, and convictions. This includes steering clear of any attempts to please those around us.
Righteousness is A Blessing
Living a life of faith requires practising one’s own values and convictions as much as possible. We should embrace our inner strength and avoid feeling pressure to please everyone else. Doing so allows for inner peace and contentment. Proverbs 11:6 states that righteousness is a blessing; a life of righteousness is an important part of living a meaningful and a fulfilling life.
Staying humble is also essential for one’s emotional and spiritual wellbeing. The Bible advises believers to stay humble and to never forget their place before God, who knows what is best for us. Philippians 2:3-8 instructs us to put others first, and to act with humility and gentleness in our words and in our actions.
We should also practice self-care. When we take time to rest and take care of our mental health, it can be a helpful reminder to prioritize our own thoughts and feelings first. The Bible speaks of self-care as a way to refresh our spirits. In addition, Psalm 46:10 tells us to be still and know that God is with us.
Take Ownership of Your Choices
Having the courage to make one’s own decisions can be a difficult yet rewarding experience. Rather than relying on what other people think, we should take responsibility for our own choices and actions. The Bible encourages us to make wise decisions and to accept the consequences of them. Proverbs 11:14 states that lack of guidance leads to misery, but those who seek wisdom find joy and fulfillment.
It is important to trust in God’s ability to provide the best for us. When we trust in God’s plans, we will be able to have faith in ourselves and in our own decisions. Isaiah 40:31 assures us by mentioning that they who wait upon the Lord will find strength and courage.
The Bible speaks of many different aspects of people pleasing, ranging from avoiding trying to please everyone, to having courage to make one’s own decisions. It calls on believers to act with humility and gentleness, and to be true to their own convictions, rather than succumbing to the expectations of others. By living a life of righteousness and trust in God’s plan, we can authentically live out our faith.
