In Deuteronomy 10:12, Moses asks a profound question: “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God, and live in a way that pleases Him, and love Him and serve Him with all your heart and soul.” This verse encapsulates the heart of what it means to live a life that pleases God. But what does that look like in our daily lives? Here are five key principles to help us walk in a way that is pleasing to Him.
1. Fear the Lord with Reverence and Awe
The fear of the Lord is not about being terrified of God, but about having deep reverence, respect, and awe for who He is. Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” When we fear God rightly, we acknowledge His authority and seek to align our lives with His will. This means obeying His Word, honoring His commands, and trusting in His sovereignty.
2. Live in Obedience to His Word
Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” Pleasing God means living in obedience to what He has revealed in Scripture. This involves not only avoiding sin but also actively pursuing righteousness—doing what is just, merciful, and loving toward others. Daily Bible reading, prayer, and a heart open to the Holy Spirit’s conviction help us stay on the path of obedience.
3. Love God Wholeheartedly
Deuteronomy 6:5 commands us to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.” Loving God isn’t just about emotions; it’s about devotion and prioritizing Him above everything else. When we love God fully, we seek to glorify Him in every area of life—our relationships, our work, our decisions, and our worship.
4. Trust in Jesus’ Sacrifice for the Forgiveness of Sin
One of the most essential aspects of pleasing God is placing our faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. Romans 3:23-24 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Our own efforts are never enough to make us righteous before God. It is only through Jesus’ sacrifice that we are forgiven and made new. Trusting in Him means surrendering our sins, receiving His grace, and living in the assurance that we are loved and accepted by God.
5. Serve Him with Joy and Dedication
God calls us not just to believe in Him but to serve Him with all our heart and soul. Colossians 3:23 encourages us: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Serving God is not limited to ministry roles; it includes using our gifts, talents, and resources to bless others, share the Gospel, and build His Kingdom.
6. Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
Hebrews 11:6 tells us, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Living a life that pleases God requires trust in His promises, even when circumstances are uncertain. Faith means surrendering control, believing in His goodness, and stepping forward in obedience even when we don’t see the full picture.
Final Thoughts
A life that pleases God is not about perfection but about direction. It’s about daily aligning our hearts with His, seeking to grow in holiness, and living out His purposes with passion and joy. As we fear the Lord, obey His Word, love Him wholeheartedly, trust in Jesus’ sacrifice, serve Him faithfully, and walk by faith, we will find that our lives bring Him great pleasure.
May we all strive to hear Him say one day, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)
