Do you have trouble saying no?

Do you find it difficult to speak up for yourself?

Do you allow someone else’s opinion of you to make your day or ruin it?

I call this the “disease to please.”

It’s been known to cause some miserable days and even worse… miserable lives.

Aim To Please God

David is a perfect example of a man after God’s own heart. Instead of trying to impress men, he always aimed to impress God.

When the prophet Samuel went to the house of Jesse to select Saul’s successor, Israel’s second king, David wasn’t even invited to the party.

In 1 Samuel 16, we read that David’s family didn’t even consider him to be a remote possibility.

When asked if there were any other sons, Jesse said, “He is tending sheep.”

Can you imagine how David felt when he walked in and saw all of his brothers dressed in their Sunday finest?

He probably thought, “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

It’s in these power moments that you become thick-skinned for the level of promotion God has for you.

In David’s life, this moment set a foundation for all that was to come. Then Samuel anointed him and the Spirit of God came upon him. (1 Samuel 16:13)

Ignore Your Critics

Critics are never going to praise you. That’s why we call them critics.

As people pleasers, it’s difficult to ignore critics.

As leaders, we should be insensitive to criticism.

Of course, I know it’s difficult to not consider the feelings of your family, friends, and co-workers.

But if we’re looking to those closest to us for approval, then we’re setting ourselves up for failure.

Have you ever awakened to a perfectly glorious day where all is right with the world–you’re singing and smiling, then…

The person you care about is having one of those days…

Not fun, is it?

You see, when we take our eyes off of Him, and we try to impress other people, we’re always going to feel let down.

If we stay focused and stick with what God has told us to do, then everything works out according to His plan.

Cave Of Adullam

In 1 Samuel 22, David finds himself in the cave of Adullam.

This was a very low moment in David’s life. At the time, he was uncertain and afraid for his future.

Archaeologists say the cave Adullam was really close to where David defeated Goliath (in the hills of Judah).

It makes sense to me that during one of the lowest points in his life, David returned to the place of his greatest victory.

Then his brothers and his father came to him in the cave.

Isn’t it amazing how God will bring the people that matter most to you back to you?

David wrote, “Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.” –Psalm 37:4

And that’s the key!

As you go through your day today, reflect on the positive things you have accomplished in your life.

In your mind, revisit the place of your greatest victory.

Know that at the time and place, God’s favor was with you.

Then know that even if you are in a dark place right now, God is still right there with you.

Keep your eyes on Him, and like David, God will give you the desires of your heart.

That’s His promise to you!