WHAT CAN WE DO TO PLEASE GOD?
- HAVE FAITH IN GOD: “…faith is the SUBSTANCE (hupostasis: that which has actual existence) of things hoped for, the EVIDENCE (elegchos: actual proof) of things not seen.” (Heb. 11:1) “…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.” (Heb. 11:6)
- BE SPIRITUALLY MINDED: “Let this mind be IN YOU which was also in Christ Jesus, who, made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” (Phil. 2:5-8)
- FEAR GOD: “The LORD takes pleasure in those who FEAR (yaw-ray’: to reverence, honor, respect, be afraid of displeasing) Him, in those who hope in His mercy” (Psa. 147:11)
- STUDY AND FOLLOW JESUS CHRIST’S EXAMPLE: “Study earnestly to present yourself APPROVED TO GOD, a workman that DOES NOT NEED TO BE ASHAMED, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15)
- OBEY GOD: Samuel said to Saul, “What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! OBEDIENCE IS BETTER THAN SACRIFICE, and SUBMISSION is better than offering the fat of rams.” (1 Sam. 15:22)
- GIVE THE SACRIFICE GOD WANTS: “Therefore by Jesus let us CONTINUALLY offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices GOD IS WELL PLEASED.” (Heb. 13:15-16)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham