1966) For many of us, we wanted to please our parents as we grew up. This need to be accepted precipitated many of our actions through the years and can still live within our hearts as adults.  

I think it’s reasonable to say we all have this desire to be accepted and it can be a foundation of inviting anyone into our lives, no matter how they treat us, if this need is misplaced or too strong.  

In John 8:44, Jesus speaks of this need when he tells his listeners they’re trying to please Satan, because their actions reflect Satan’s character. And though Jesus does not say it here, it’s also true in the positive.

If we want to please God, our father, our actions will reflect his character.