Late one stifling summer night, Dad gently woke my little brother and me, shuffling our sweaty, pajama-clad bodies into the car. We had no clue where he was taking us, but his gleeful anticipation assured us we were in for a treat. I fought to stay awake, certain our adventure was worth the loss of sleep.
Finally, the car stopped, and I peered over the backseat. We were parked at a late-night ice cream stand. Frankly, I was disappointed. If offered a choice between the best ice cream cone in the world and a sound night’s sleep, I’d choose sleep every time.
Despite my young age, I understood the significance of Dad’s effort. How many dads whisked their young children away for a sugary snack in the middle of the night, right? Plus, I knew ice cream was one of Dad’s favorite treats. I wanted him to feel appreciated, so I dutifully licked my vanilla scoop and pretended to be thrilled.
Dad saw right through my façade. I’ll never forget the defeated look on his face when he realized the truth, nor the sinking feeling in my stomach when I realized I had disappointed him. At that moment, I determined to do whatever I could to please my dad.
Quickly, I learned that Dad was easy to please. When I shamefully showed him a low grade on my report card, Dad pointed out the comments from my teacher, describing my strengths. He told me he was proud of my character. When I struggled to keep up with him on a bike ride, he assured me the joy of the activity came from spending time together, not my skill or speed. And when my immature and selfish disobedience required discipline, Dad emphasized his love for me despite my flaws.
I’ve been studying the book of Romans and remembering again the unfathomable blessing of God’s grace. From childhood, I’ve understood that my right standing with God is not something I can earn but rather a gift I receive through faith (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8–9).
Even so, I desire to please God—my heartfelt response to His unconditional love. My efforts have often been motivated more by a prideful desire to feel good about myself than a pure desire to bless God or His people. Much like my bumbling attempts to please my dad as a child, I mistakenly assume I know what would please God, only to discover His requirements are far simpler than I believed. My pastor says, “God is easier to please than man,” and I’ve found that true.
How to Please God
So, what pleases God? The Bible actually tells us, so we don’t have to guess or experiment. Here are a few specific things God takes pleasure in, according to Scripture:
- The redeeming, saving work of Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:19; Isaiah 53:10; 1 Corinthians 1:21)
- A repentant sinner (Ezekiel 18:23; Luke 15:17)
- His people (Psalm 17:8, 22:8, 149:4)
- When believers walk in God’s ways (Philippians 2:13; Psalm 37:23; Romans 8:8; 1 John 3:21–23)
- Praise and thanksgiving (Psalm 69:30–31)
- Faith in Him (Hebrews 11:6)
Just as my dad loved me no matter what I did or didn’t do, so our heavenly Father loves us. God loves you, not because of what you’ve done, but because of who He is. His affection is not conditional on a list of do’s and don’ts. No, He simply wants you to place your trust in Him and receive His incredible gift of grace through faith in Christ alone.
The Lord takes pleasure in those who hope in His steadfast love (Psalm 147:11).
