Pleasing God Over People. Galatians 1:10

Frank Wible
Jul 5
2 min read

Frank was known for getting things done. As a financial advisor, his phone buzzed from sunrise to midnight with clients needing instant answers. He prided himself on replying faster than anyone else in his office. “You’re the backbone of this firm,” his boss often said. Praise felt like oxygen.

Frank Wible in blue shirt on phone at desk with dual monitors showing graphs. Papers and pen holder on desk. Bright office with cityscape view. — Frank built his life on others’ approval—until it nearly broke him.

At church, he volunteered for everything—ushering, running security, leading the men’s group. Everyone loved Frank. But deep down, he felt empty. Each day ended with him lying in bed, staring at the ceiling fan, wondering why life felt so heavy despite his constant striving.

One Friday afternoon, while finalizing portfolios before a weekend retreat, he felt his chest tighten. Dizziness blurred his vision. He clutched his desk to stay upright. Panic rose like a flood. For the first time in his life, he turned off his phone mid-day and drove to a quiet park.

Sitting on a weathered bench, he opened his Bible app. The verse of the day read: “For am I now seeking the favor of people, or of God? Or am I striving to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.” Tears welled up as he read Galatians 1:10 again and again.

He whispered, “God, I’ve spent my life trying to make everyone happy. I don’t even know what You want anymore.” In that silence, a thought settled in his chest like a stone dropping into water: You’re called to please Me, not them.

Frank Wible in plaid shirt sits on park bench with head in hands, showing a contemplative mood. Sunlight filters through tree-lined path. — Approval fades. Obedience remains.

That weekend, Frank didn’t check emails once. Instead, he sat under oak trees at the retreat center, journaled prayers, and worshipped with abandon for the first time in years. The anxiety in his chest loosened as he imagined living for an audience of One.

On Monday, he met with his boss and restructured his client hours, leaving work by five to be home for dinner. Some clients complained. Some colleagues mocked him. But each time self-doubt whispered, he repeated Galatians 1:10 under his breath.

Months later, Frank felt lighter. He still served at church but with intention instead of guilt. His kids noticed his peace. His wife noticed his smile returning. One evening, while tucking in his youngest daughter, she hugged him tightly and said, “I love when you’re home, Daddy.”

That night, Frank lay in bed, staring at the ceiling fan again—but this time with a smile. For the first time, he felt free. Pleasing God over people didn’t cost him his identity. It finally gave it back.

Whose approval do you seek most right now?