Living a Life That Pleases God
Summary
It’s worth it to live a life that pleases God. Every breath, every year, every new day is not just a gift for our comfort, but a call to purpose. God has kept us, not so we can coast, but so we can walk, work, and witness in faith. In this season, we are being challenged to move beyond just showing up, beyond just singing or serving out of routine. The real question is: are we living in such a way that heaven looks down and says, “Well done”?
Living to please God is not about appearances or checking religious boxes. It’s about a faith that is alive—faith that walks with God, works in obedience, and worships in gratitude. Like Noah, who didn’t just believe God’s word but built the ark, we are called to put our faith into action. Faith without works is dead. God is not looking for spectators, but for participators—those who will use their gifts, serve, and reach out to others.
We must also remember that worship is not just for Sunday mornings. True worship is fueled by gratitude, and it happens in every season—through grief, through uncertainty, through blessing. When God brings us through, we must not forget to say thank you, to build an altar of praise before we build anything else. Our worship, especially in the hard times, is what pleases God most.
This is a season of building, believing, and pressing forward. It’s a time to invest in our youth, to encourage academic and spiritual excellence, and to support one another in prayer and love. We are called to action, to obedience, and to gratitude. God is inviting us to take a step of faith, to trust Him even when the path doesn’t make sense, and to watch Him do what only He can do. Without faith, it is impossible to please God—but with faith, we will see Him move in ways beyond our imagination.
Key Takeaways
- Faith Is More Than Belief—It’s a Walk
Pleasing God requires more than just believing He exists; it means walking with Him daily, aligning our steps with His word, and checking in through prayer even when life is good. Faith is a relationship, not a ritual, and it’s cultivated by consistent, intentional communion with God. When we walk with Him, our lives become a testimony of trust and surrender. [01:12:18]
- Obedience Activates God’s Promises
Faith without works is dead. God honors obedience more than talent or good intentions. Like Noah, we must move from intention to action—building, serving, and using our gifts for God’s kingdom. When we step out in obedience, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient, we position ourselves to receive God’s best. [01:24:27]
- Worship Is the Fuel of a Grateful Heart
True worship flows from gratitude, not just for what God has done, but for who He is. After every storm, before we celebrate the blessing, we must build an altar of thanksgiving. Worship in the process, not just the outcome, pleases God and keeps our hearts aligned with His. [01:34:04]
- Invest in the Next Generation—It’s Urgent
Our children are our tomorrow, and it’s vital to ground them in faith and excellence now, not later. The church and family must partner to pour into their spiritual, academic, and emotional growth. If we neglect this, we risk losing our future; if we invest, we build a legacy that honors God. [29:58]
- Faith Grows by Taking the Leap
Growth in faith doesn’t come by waiting for perfect conditions, but by stepping out when God calls—even when it doesn’t make sense. Every act of trust, every leap, is met by God’s faithfulness. As we move, God moves, and our faith matures through action, not just contemplation. [01:41:49]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[11:07] - Opening Praise: “It’s Worth It”
[14:57] - Prayers and Community Updates
[23:02] - Faith Series Continues & Announcements
[26:24] - Staying Connected: Membership and Newsletters
[29:01] - The Importance of Youth Involvement
[29:58] - Investing in Our Children’s Future
[32:48] - Celebrating Academic Excellence
[39:52] - Encouragement for All Students
[42:11] - Fellowship and Gratitude
[45:11] - Special Prayers and Celebrations
[49:19] - June Birthdays and Anniversaries
[51:50] - Living to Please God: Hebrews 11:6
[01:05:29] - What Does It Mean to Please God?
[01:12:18] - Faith That Walks with God
[01:24:27] - Faith That Works in Obedience
[01:34:04] - Faith That Worships in Gratitude
[01:41:49] - The Call to Take a Step of Faith
[01:48:30] - Prayers for Stepping Out in Faith
[01:53:55] - Giving and Campaign 50 Update
[02:00:28] - Final Announcements and Closing
[02:09:54] - Benediction and Dismissal
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Living to Please God
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### Bible Reading
- Hebrews 11:6
"And 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." (NIV)
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 11:6, what two things are necessary for someone to please God?
2. In the sermon, what are some ways the pastor described as “just showing up” or “checking religious boxes” instead of truly living to please God? [[01:05:29]]
3. What did Noah do that showed his faith was more than just belief? [[01:12:18]]
4. What is the first thing Noah did after the flood, according to the sermon? [[01:34:04]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The pastor said, “God is not looking for spectators, but for participators.” What does it mean to be a participator in faith, and how is that different from just attending church? [[01:23:34]]
2. Why do you think the pastor emphasized that worship is not just for Sunday mornings, but should happen “in every season—through grief, through uncertainty, through blessing”? [[01:38:48]]
3. The sermon mentioned that “obedience activates God’s promises.” How does obedience connect to faith, and why is it important for seeing God’s promises fulfilled? [[01:24:27]]
4. The pastor challenged the church to invest in the next generation. Why is this urgent, and what might happen if we neglect this responsibility? [[29:58]]
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### Application Questions
1. The pastor asked, “Are we living in such a way that heaven looks down and says, ‘Well done’?” What is one area of your life where you feel challenged to live more intentionally for God? [[01:05:29]]
2. Think about your daily routine. Are there times when your faith is more about habit than relationship? What is one practical way you can “walk with God” this week, not just go through the motions? [[01:12:18]]
3. The sermon said, “Faith without works is dead.” Is there a gift or talent you’ve been sitting on that you could use to serve God or others? What’s one step you can take to put your faith into action? [[01:26:56]]
4. The pastor talked about building an “altar of thanksgiving” before celebrating the blessing. What is something God has brought you through recently, and how can you intentionally thank and worship Him for it? [[01:34:04]]
5. When was the last time you took a “leap of faith”—stepping out when the path didn’t make sense? Is there something God is calling you to trust Him with right now? What’s holding you back? [[01:41:49]]
6. The sermon highlighted the importance of investing in our youth. Is there a young person in your life you can encourage, mentor, or pray for this week? What’s one specific thing you can do to support their growth? [[29:58]]
7. The pastor said, “True worship flows from gratitude, not just for what God has done, but for who He is.” How can you practice gratitude in your worship this week, even if you’re going through a hard time? [[01:38:48]]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to help you live a life that pleases Him—not just in words, but in action, obedience, and gratitude. Pray for faith to take the next step He’s calling you to, and for the courage to invest in others, especially the next generation.
Devotional
Day 1: Faith That Pleases God
Living a life that pleases God is not about outward appearances or religious routines, but about having genuine faith that trusts in God’s existence and His goodness. True faith is the foundation of a relationship with God, and it is impossible to please Him without it. Each day is a new opportunity to trust God more deeply, to believe that He is present and active, and to seek Him with all your heart. Ask yourself if your daily walk reflects a faith that makes God smile, or if you are simply going through the motions. God is looking for hearts that trust Him, not just lips that praise Him. [01:07:55]
Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)
"And 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."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to trust God more deeply today, believing that He is both present and a rewarder of those who seek Him?
Day 2: Walking With God Daily
Walking with God means aligning your steps with His word and inviting Him into every part of your life—not just in times of trouble, but in the ordinary moments as well. It’s about checking in with God through prayer, seeking His guidance, and being willing to follow wherever He leads, even when it doesn’t make sense. When you walk with God, your life becomes a testimony of His faithfulness, and you find strength to face challenges knowing He is by your side. Let your relationship with God be marked by daily dependence, honest conversation, and a willingness to follow His lead. [01:13:54]
Genesis 6:9 (ESV)
"These are the generations of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God."
Reflection: How can you intentionally invite God into your daily routines and decisions, making your walk with Him more consistent and real?
Day 3: Faith That Works in Obedience
Faith is not just belief—it is action. God is not pleased with spectators but with participators who put their faith into practice through obedience. Like Noah, who didn’t just believe it would rain but built the ark, we are called to act on what God has spoken, using our gifts and serving others. Faith without works is dead, and God honors those who step out and do the work He has set before them. Don’t just hope for change—be the change by moving from intention to action, supporting your church, and using your talents for God’s glory. [01:23:34]
James 2:17 (ESV)
"So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
Reflection: What is one specific step of obedience you can take this week to put your faith into action, even if it feels uncomfortable or inconvenient?
Day 4: Worshiping God with Gratitude
Worship that pleases God is fueled by gratitude, not just for what He has done, but for who He is. Like Noah, who built an altar to the Lord after the flood, we are called to worship God before, during, and after our storms. Don’t let the blessings God gives you become distractions from worshiping Him; instead, let your thankfulness overflow into praise. Worship God not only when you feel like it, but through every process—grief, uncertainty, or waiting—knowing that your praise in the midst of difficulty is precious to Him. [01:34:04]
Genesis 8:20 (ESV)
"Then Noah built an altar to the Lord and took some of every clean animal and some of every clean bird and offered burnt offerings on the altar."
Reflection: What is one thing you can thank God for today, and how can you express your gratitude to Him in worship regardless of your current circumstances?
Day 5: Taking the Leap of Faith
God calls us to take steps of faith, trusting Him even when the path ahead is uncertain or unfamiliar. Your faith grows as you move forward, not by waiting for perfect conditions. When you step out in faith, God meets you, strengthens you, and leads you further than you could have imagined. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back from what God has in store—be willing to take the leap, knowing that God is faithful to guide and provide. Your willingness to move is what activates God’s work in your life. [01:44:42]
Joshua 1:9 (ESV)
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Reflection: What is one area where God is prompting you to take a leap of faith, and what practical step can you take today to move forward in trust?
Quotes
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