We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.

1 Thessalonians 2

We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. v4-6

As Paul describes his ministry and the opposition he faced (v2) he goes on to remark about how it does not matter whether he faced opposition or not because he knows that God wants him to continue doing what he is doing and it does not matter how others feel about his ministry as long as it pleases God.  

Many of us seek earthly recognition, status, etc. and this is a powerful idol.  This begs the question of how do we know if what we are doing is pleasing to God.  Renewal of the mind is key.  This is a significant area of study - John Piper has many thoughts on this topic.  

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who has provided great clarity for me in many areas of my life and Your will - thank You Jesus.  I depend on You for direction and clarity and without it I would be utterly lost!  I am undeserving of Your wisdom and love.  I sin daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Galatians 1

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. v10

I know that I am wired to please people, whether that be my family, my boss, co-workers, etc. But first and foremost I am to please God vs people.  Of course, in most circumstances, pleasing God will please others as we show love and the glory of God through our actions.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You indeed are great beyond description.  You created the heavens and the earth and everything else that I experience..."every good and perfect gift" comes from You.  You suffered and died for me and You bless me beyond what I deserve with an incredible family, friends, etc.  Thank You Jesus!  I am however undeserving...I am disobedient and full of anger...please forgive me Jesus.  Help me turn from such sin and towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength.  Help me love others as You do. Help me grow in my faith.  Give me strength.  Give Lisa strength.  Cure and heal her of this cancer.  Help me serve You, Lisa, Zach and Dustin. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.