The joy of the Lord is more than just an emotional experience; it is a reflection of the peace and contentment that comes from living a life that aligns with His divine will. Our relationship with God is deeply rooted in obedience—obeying His word, following His commandments, and seeking His guidance in every area of our lives.
When we make pleasing God a priority, we not only honor Him, but we also position ourselves to receive His abundant grace and favor. Below, we explore five practical ways to make God happy, emphasizing the importance of putting Him first and living a life that reflects His love and holiness.
Put God First in Everything
The call to put God first is a fundamental principle for anyone seeking to live a life that pleases Him. In Matthew 6:33, we are reminded to “seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.” This command speaks to the importance of aligning our priorities with God’s will. Whether in our personal lives, careers, relationships, or daily decisions, God should always take precedence. When we prioritize God, it becomes easier to navigate life’s complexities because our actions and decisions are filtered through His wisdom.
Putting God first means intentionally carving out time for prayer, meditation on His Word, and listening for His guidance. It also means that in our moments of decision-making, we ask ourselves: “What would honor God in this situation?” This mindset fosters a closer relationship with Him, as we depend less on our understanding and more on His direction. As we align our lives with God’s plans, He blesses us with peace, clarity, and a deep sense of purpose.
Identify and Help the Poor and Needy
One of the clearest ways we can reflect God’s love is by showing kindness and generosity to those who are less fortunate. Galatians 6:9-10 encourages us to not grow weary in doing good and to extend that good especially to those who belong to the family of believers. God’s heart is for the marginalized, the oppressed, and the needy, and He calls us to be His hands and feet in ministering to them.
Proverbs 19:17 further assures us that “whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done.” Acts of charity and compassion are not only moral obligations but spiritual practices that draw us closer to the heart of God. By giving our time, resources, and love to others, we emulate Christ’s selflessness and fulfil our call to love our neighbours.
Engaging in acts of kindness isn’t just about material giving—it’s about seeing and acknowledging the humanity and worth of every individual. Visiting the sick, comforting the lonely, advocating for justice, or simply offering a listening ear are all ways we can serve others. In doing so, we fulfil God’s command to love others as ourselves, bringing joy to His heart.
Live in Peace with Others
Living in peace with others is a tangible way of demonstrating the transformative power of God’s love in our lives. Romans 12:18 urges, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Peacefulness is a hallmark of the Christian faith, and by striving to maintain harmonious relationships, we reflect the character of God, who is the Prince of Peace.
However, living in peace requires intentional effort. It involves humility, patience, and a willingness to forgive. In our interactions with family, friends, and even strangers, we are called to act with grace and understanding, putting aside personal pride and grievances. By pursuing peace, we build stronger, more compassionate communities, and we contribute to an atmosphere of unity that glorifies God.
Moreover, peace is not just the absence of conflict—it’s the presence of harmony and goodwill. In every situation, whether at work, at home, or in social settings, we should ask ourselves how we can foster peace. By choosing kindness over retaliation, forgiveness over bitterness, and empathy over judgment, we embody the principles of Christ and create spaces where God’s love can flourish.
Get Involved in Promoting Godliness
As believers, we are called to actively promote godliness in both our private and public lives. James 4:4 cautions us against conforming to the world’s values, while Hebrews 12:14 instructs us to “pursue peace with everyone, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” Being part of a godly community is essential to growing in faith and inspiring others to seek after righteousness.
One practical way to promote godliness is by participating in church activities, community outreach, and faith-based discussions. Engaging in these activities helps to spread the message of God’s love and righteousness, encouraging others to lead lives that honour Him. Mentoring younger believers, volunteering in ministries, and supporting missions are all ways to promote godliness.
Additionally, we can live out godliness in our everyday lives by making moral decisions, being a voice of reason in challenging situations, and living by example. Our conduct, speech, and actions should reflect the love, compassion, and holiness of God. When we do this, we not only please God, but we also create an atmosphere that invites others to know Him more deeply.
Nurture a God-Honouring Family
One of the most profound ways to please God is by nurturing a family that honours and serves Him. Joshua 24:15 boldly declares, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” The family is the bedrock of society, and a God-centered home provides the foundation for children and future generations to grow in faith.
Raising a God-honouring family means leading by example—demonstrating Christ-like love, patience, and discipline in your home. It also involves actively teaching your family about God’s word, praying together, and fostering an environment where faith is openly discussed and celebrated. Family devotions, church participation, and conversations about spiritual matters create a culture where God’s presence is acknowledged and revered.
When families honor God, they become beacons of His love in their communities. Parents who model faith for their children leave a legacy that impacts generations. And as families grow closer to God, His favor and protection surround them, creating strong, faith-filled households that contribute to the broader Christian community.
Living a life that pleases God requires more than just outward actions—it requires a heart committed to seeking Him and a life devoted to reflecting His love and holiness. These five practical principles serve as a roadmap for those desiring to bring joy to God’s heart. By putting God first, helping those in need, living in peace, promoting godliness, and nurturing a God-honoring family, we can live lives that are pleasing to Him.
Remember, God looks at the heart, not just the action. As you commit to these practices, let them be fueled by genuine love for Him and others. In doing so, you will not only experience personal transformation but also witness the unfolding of God’s blessings in your life. Trust in His guidance, and let His joy become your strength as you strive to please Him in all that you do.
Dr. Mike Udam School Teacher and Village Preacher from Ogoja, Nigeria
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