We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.
This is as simple a way as I can think possible for us to understand our role as God's children. We are to learn truth, and to live truth, which also includes speaking truth. Truth is of course, the Way or Jesus Christ and his teachings as espoused in the Bible.
This is of course will very likely put us in harms way - potentially physical harm depending on the circumstances but most likely emotional harm. Paul tell us later in 1 Thessalonians 3 that "For you know quite well that we are destined for them [trials]."
The questions then become
- am I learning truth (in my heart)
- am I living a life of truth
- am I speaking truth
On all of these counts there is of course room for growth but in particular I feel God is calling me to more fully live (act) and speak truth.
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25
But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and
continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they
will be blessed in what they do. James 22:-25
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am humbled by Your perfect life and even more so that You love me and that You bless me. I am so undeserving particularly in light of my own laziness, disobedience, and arrogance. I think that I am actually pleasing You when I am not. Forgive me for this and help me more fully give me life away to You.
