How can we ensure our motives align with pleasing God, not people? Setting the Verse in Context 1 Thessalonians 2:4: “But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak not to please men, but God, who examines our hearts.” Paul reminds the Thessalonians that gospel ministry—and every act of obedience—must flow from a desire to satisfy the One who “examines our hearts.” The verse answers both the “why” (to please God) and the “how” (with motives God approves). The Heart Test: God’s Approval First • God alone grants “approval” (dokimazō — tested and found genuine). • He “entrusted” the message to Paul; we steward whatever callings He gives us (1 Corinthians 4:1–2). • Motives matter because “all a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the motives” (Proverbs 16:2). • The audience shift: from seeking human applause to honoring the God “who examines our hearts.” Practical Steps to Keep Motives God-Focused 1. Start with honest prayer for examination • Psalm 139:23–24—invite God to search and reveal hidden motives. 2. Filter goals through Scripture • Hebrews 4:12–13: the Word exposes the thoughts and intentions of the heart. • Ask, “Does this align with clear biblical commands or principles?” 3. Remember gospel stewardship • 2 Corinthians 5:14–15—Christ’s love compels us; we live for Him who died for us. • Keeps service rooted in gratitude, not self-promotion. 4. Choose obscurity over applause when needed • Matthew 6:1–4—give in secret so the Father rewards you. • Practice unseen faithfulness to train your heart away from people-pleasing. 5. Evaluate audience and rewards • Colossians 3:23–24—work “for the Lord, not for men,” knowing He will reward. • Shift your imagined applause from earth to heaven. 6. Seek accountability • Proverbs 27:17—trusted believers sharpen us. • Invite counsel that probes “why” not just “what.” Scripture Cross-References • Galatians 1:10—“If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” • Ephesians 6:6—serve “not only to win their favor…but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.” • 1 Corinthians 4:4–5—the Lord will “expose the motives of men’s hearts” at His coming. These reinforce that God’s scrutiny—and His commendation—matter most. Self-Check List for Daily Alignment □ Did I seek God’s approval before others today? □ Were my unseen actions consistent with my public words? □ Would I still do this if no one noticed or thanked me? □ Am I content if God alone sees and rewards? □ Does my service reflect love for Christ and His gospel? Encouragement to Persevere Shifting motives is gradual but Spirit-empowered (Philippians 2:13). Each small, sincere choice to please God over people trains the heart toward genuine worship and secures the “well done” that matters eternally. |
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