The concept of "Pleasing God First" is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the priority of aligning one's life and actions with God's will above all else. This principle is rooted in the understanding that God, as the Creator and Sustainer of all things, deserves the utmost reverence, obedience, and devotion from His creation.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous passages that underscore the importance of pleasing God as the foremost priority in a believer's life. In the Old Testament, the prophet Micah encapsulates this idea succinctly: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8). This verse highlights the moral and spiritual conduct that pleases God, emphasizing justice, mercy, and humility.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently addresses the theme of pleasing God. In his letter to the Galatians, Paul writes, "Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:10). Here, Paul contrasts the pursuit of human approval with the higher calling of serving Christ, indicating that pleasing God should take precedence over pleasing people.

Living to Please God

The call to live a life that pleases God is further elaborated in Paul's epistle to the Thessalonians: "Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us. This is indeed how you are living, so we urge you to keep progressing more and more" (1 Thessalonians 4:1). This exhortation encourages believers to continually grow in their faith and conduct, striving to align more closely with God's desires.

The writer of Hebrews also emphasizes faith as a critical component of pleasing God: "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6). Faith, therefore, is foundational to a life that pleases God, as it reflects trust in His character and promises.

Obstacles to Pleasing God

Scripture also warns of the obstacles that can hinder a believer's ability to please God. The Apostle John cautions against the love of the world: "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 John 2:15). This passage highlights the tension between worldly desires and the pursuit of God's will, urging believers to prioritize their relationship with God over temporal attractions.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in enabling believers to live lives that are pleasing to God. Paul writes to the Romans, "Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you" (Romans 8:8-9). The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to overcome sinful tendencies and to cultivate a life that reflects God's righteousness.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide a specific formula for pleasing God, it offers guiding principles that emphasize faith, obedience, and a heart aligned with God's purposes. By prioritizing these elements, believers can strive to live in a manner that honors and pleases their Creator.