Do not please men but God

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The bible says that the word of God is double edged sword as it cuts in both ways – separating good and evil. And while everything is exposed before the eyes of God, nothing can be hidden apparently – our deeds, thoughts, desires, secrets, etc. And this omniscient quality explains the supremacy of God in everything. Being said that, it is appropriate to please God than anything else in this world.

Looking back, those righteous men in the past weren’t afraid to speak the truth of the gospel, as they were strengthened by the Lord with the meekness in their heart, desiring nothing but the Lord and His glory. And they were proclaiming the gospel consistently in the face of strong opposition, even to the point of death. As a matter of fact, they were not proclaiming the Good News alone, but also teaching the rightful ways to obtain salvation. Certainly, they were not trying to please men, but the Lord.

It has been a practice now-a-days for some church leaders to please men rather than God. Often their motives are to increase the numbers of the church goers – and thus channeling the wealth and fame scrupulously. It is noticeable when the Apostle Paul addressed the people of Thessalonica with regards to this matter – and it’s written in 1 Thessalonians 2:4-6, NIV-Bible; “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. 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.”

Seemingly, many forget that quality is more important than the quantity when it comes to godly matters. Moreover, what is the benefit having larger church-congregation with too many rebellious people – never willing to learn or adapt the ways of the Lord? To be reminded, the word of God is alive and active, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). Therefore, be bold in addressing the right gospel when given a chance. And God will take control and works with you according to His good plan and purpose. Amen