PLEASING GOD

1 Thessalonians 2:4-5 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.(5) For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness:

The apostle Paul was talking of the great responsibility of spreading the Gospel and preaching the Word of God. It is tempting to sometimes avoid subjects that are controversial. We need to follow the example of Paul. He was very careful to try to please God and not please man.

Many of the subjects he preached angered those he was preaching to. (Remember he spent a great deal of time being beaten and thrown in Jail.) I personally believe that Paul preached to truth no matter what the outcome might be. I believe he preached it in love and had compassion even for those who would not receive his message. He did this because he wanted to please God and he had a strong desire to see his fellow man turn away from sin and turn to God.

Many preachers and religious leaders today are filled with flattering words, and walk lightly around certain sins to keep from offending anyone. Their attitude is that we should accept every action and every lifestyle and all just try to get along.

Like the apostle Paul, we don't need to flatter or appease people. We need to please God and speak truth. We must make sure that we speak that truth in love and with guidance from the Holy Spirit. Sadly when we please God, it displeases some people.