May 01, 2025

Approval Addiction, People Pleasing, and How Pastors Can Let Go

30 minutes

Most pastors want to be liked and respected by their congregations. This desire is part of the reason they are motivated to serve others. However, approval addiction can become a major barrier to leadership. When people pleasing becomes the priority, pastors often do more harm than good in their congregations. Marty Duren joins Josh and Sam to discuss this important topic.

The culture war makes us feel like we have to take a side on every issue.

People pleasing feels holy, but it isn’t.

Recognize your role is to shepherd, not fix everyone’s problems.

Balance the shepherd’s heart with the prophetic voice.

Release pressure with strategic silence and fewer words.

Stop mixing serving others with performing for others.

Receive criticism without internalizing it.

Anchor your identity in Christ, not in the approval of others.

Check out Marty’s new book! Order The Disparate Ones now!

Resources:

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Churchteams

“The Disparate Ones” by Marty Duren (affiliate link)

FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

Church Answers Central

The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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By Thom Rainer

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