1 Thessalonians 2 - 3.30.26

Scripture

1 Thessalonians‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.”

Observation

In this passage, Paul is writing the church in Thessalonica. He is defending the ministry of Timothy, Silas, and himself to the Thessalonians. He is expressing that all the works they do are with pure motives. God knows their hearts. God knows their sacrifice. Everything they do is to bring glory to God through His Son, Jesus Christ, and to share the Good News. There is no selfish ambition here. Their main purpose is not to get the people’s approval, but God’s approval.

Application

Am I concerned more about pleasing people, or pleasing God?🤔

It’s a question we should all ask ourselves. You see, anyone who calls themselves a Christian has been entrusted to do what Paul, Silas, and Timothy are doing here…and that is to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. We may not all be called to go overseas to do it, but we are called to do it wherever we go-(Matthew 28: 18-20). Just know that when we do that, when we try to share the light of Jesus with others, we WILL face opposition. We will face ridicule. We will face rejection. But we are to fight the good fight. We are to be good stewards with this mission that God has entrusted us with, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. 

“Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” -2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬ ‭‭

But do not worry because Jesus said:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” -John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭

Now I don’t know about you all, but I’m trusting Jesus. I don’t want to let Him down. My focus above all needs to be more on pleasing Him, than pleasing others. 

“Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” -Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭28‬ ‭

Prayer

Father God, forgive me for caring too much of what others think of me, rather than caring more of what You think of me. You should be my primary focus. Please give me the strength, courage, and boldness to fulfill Your will and Your purpose in my life. Help me to take that next step of faith, get out of my comfort zone, and share with someone today, the Good News of Jesus Christ. In Jesus name I pray these things, Amen. 🙏🏽 

-Moses Gaddi