Matthew Chapter 21: Verses 14-15 (NLT Translation)
The blind and the lame came to him in the Temple and he healed them. The leading priests and the teachers of religious law saw these wonderful miracles and even heard the children in the Temple shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David.”
But the leaders were indignant.
If we’ve tried really hard to do a good turn and it then goes unnoticed, or worse, is unappreciated, we can be really disappointed. Even being confronted by wonderful miracles, we read that the religious leaders were not rejoicing as they should have been. In fact, they were indignant. Jesus didn’t however perform the miracles to please them though. He knew what they were thinking just as He knows our thoughts and motives. The displeasure of those in religious authority did not hinder His ministry.
We also need to recognise that we won’t please everyone, no matter how hard we try. After all if Jesus didn’t please everyone, there’s no chance that we will.
The person we should be trying to please is our Father God, and we should not allow the opinion and attitude of others to put us off, even if their behaviour hurts our feelings. The writer of the book of Hebrews reminds us…”don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.” (Hebrews Chapter 16: verse 16 NLT Version.)
Human nature being what it is, we must accept that its not possible to please others, but that its far more important to please God, no matter what anyone else thinks.
Dear Lord,
Sometimes when our feelings are hurt our confidence takes a knock. But You are always the great encourager. May I always seek to please You in all that I do and not be concerned about trying to win the favour of others.
I pray in Jesus’ Name. AMEN.