“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10

Have you ever heard the saying, “the squeaky wheel gets the grease”? Growing up in Texas, I have heard this saying used often, but I had never considered its implications when applied to our spiritual life until I heard the saying used earlier this week. I am finding that the older I get, the easier it has become to “find a sermon” in anything and everything. 

Upon reflection, I realized that the world and the people around us could be represented by the squeaky wheel, and the grease could represent your desire to please. 

Because God is a God of grace and peace, His instructions to us are often quiet, heard by us only when we take time to listen. 

The world, unfortunately, does not operate that way. It is the squeakier wheel. It loudly demands that we constantly seek its approval and fulfill its tasks. 

Our days are filled with thoughts around how we can please our boss, our kids, our spouse, our friends and still keep all the plates spinning. If we are not careful, the noise from the squeaky wheel will completely drown out the quiet, still voice of God, and we will lose sight of what it means to live a life that pleases Him. 

This distracting nature is by design. In a world of increasing noise, a heart that wants to please our Heavenly Father is even more powerful. And in a life of pressing demands and hurdles, followers of Christ have a greater spiritual need to be anchored in our purpose. 

What would our lives look like if we lived to please God instead of using all our energy hoping to gain the approval of man? In Ephesians 4:1-3, we learn what a life surrendered to God looks like. 

“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1-3

This is the kind of life that pleases God.

Do we overflow with humility, gentleness, patience, love and unity? Or are we simply striving to quiet the squeaky wheel – fighting to please those around us thinking we will someday accomplish enough and earn peace? 

In the seasons I have found myself in a season of trying to please man or the world around me, my reward was not patience, unity, or peace. My reward was exhaustion, burnout and resentment. 

It is only when I fight for stillness that I hear God’s gentle voice, urging me to remember who I am and whose approval really matters.  

Written by Audra Beaty, associate director of digital marketing, Buckner International