Pursuing Righteousness and Unfailing Love: Learning to Please God, Not People

“Every choice reveals who you’re living to please—people or the One who gave you time itself.”

Proverbs 21:21

Whoever pursues righteousness and unfailing love will find life, righteousness, and honor.

This subject came up at my work—of all places. A co-worker and I were talking about our personal time and company time. At work, we’re always wanting to please others and say yes. Sometimes that turns into staying late, skipping lunch, or doing more than what’s healthy. Why do we do that? Even secular therapy says that’s not healthy behavior.

But as believers, we have to ask a deeper question: Who are we really trying to please? Why are we trying to please them? Proverbs 21:21 reminds us that pursuing righteousness and unfailing love leads to true life and honor. That pursuit doesn’t come from trying to earn approval—it comes from a heart set on pleasing God first.

We need to ask these same questions not only at work but at home, at church, and anywhere our time is being pulled. God has entrusted each of us with a limited amount of time—just like money—and He expects us to manage it wisely. Our time is more valuable than any paycheck. It’s a precious gift from our Heavenly Father, and we’re called to use it for things that have eternal value.

Working late just to gain approval or recognition isn’t something we’ll hear God commend when we see Him face to face. But staying late to comfort, encourage, or witness to a co-worker is something completely different. That’s where pursuing righteousness and unfailing love becomes visible—it’s not about what we do, but who we do it for.

When we view our days through the lens of eternity, it becomes easier to see what’s truly worthwhile. Being available for a brother or sister in their time of need is something that pleases the Lord deeply. The blessings that flow from those moments are unlike anything else.

In another light, don’t ever think you have nothing to give. You may not always have extra money or resources, but your time and willingness to serve are powerful gifts. When you offer your time, you’re essentially saying, “The Lord and I will be there.” That kind of love—unfailing and righteous—changes lives.

Let’s be good stewards of this priceless gift of time. Let’s commit to pursuing righteousness and unfailing love in all we do, not for the applause of people but for the glory of God.

Thank You, Father, for one more day. Teach me to use my time wisely—to honor You, serve others, and live for things that last forever. Amen.

Galatians 1:10

Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.

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