People-Pleasing & the Fear of Man

We all want to be loved, accepted, and approved of by others. But when that desire becomes something we need in order to be okay, it can begin to shape our relationships, decisions, and even our obedience to God. In this episode, Gunner Gundersen sits down with Ed Welch and Mike Emlet to revisit Ed's influential book, When People Are Big and God Is Small: Overcoming Peer Pressure, Codependency, and the Fear of Man.

Ed shares the story behind the book and how his exploration of the codependency movement led him to discover the rich ways Scripture speaks to our longing for approval. Together, they reflect on personal experiences with people-pleasing, consider how our desires can become demands, and explore how the fear of man shows up in everyday relationships. They also discuss practical questions that help uncover what we're looking for from others and how we can grow in love. Ultimately, the way forward isn't simply greater self-awareness, but a deeper knowledge of Christ—one that turns our attention from ourselves and others toward the beauty and greatness of God.

Mentioned in this episode:
- When Divorce is Mercy | book my Michael Gembola and Darby Strickland
- When People are Big and God is Small | book by Ed Welch