The subject matter described herein provides novel human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor modulators that have biological activity similar or superior to native GLP-1 peptide and thus are useful for the treatment or prevention of diseases or disorders associated with GLP activity. The described compounds include chemically modified peptides that not only stimulate insulin secretion in type II diabetics, but also produce other beneficial insulinotropic responses. These synthetic peptide GLP-1 receptor modulators exhibit increased stability to proteolytic cleavage making them ideal therapeutic candidates for oral or parenteral administration. The disclosed and claimed peptides show desirable pharmacokinetic properties and desirable potency in efficacy models of diabetes.