1 Thessalonians 2:1-5

2       You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure. ² We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition. ³ For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. ⁴ On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts. ⁵ You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. ^[1]

How do we define success and failure? One is considered successful when they advance in position, prominence, and they prosper. We live in an age when big is better. We want bigger homes, more expensive cars, and better paying jobs so we can afford the bigger things. This same attitude has crept into the church. Not only do pastors want to lead bigger churches, but also people want to attend them. There is nothing wrong with having nice things or being part of a large ministry, it is just simply not the best barometer for measuring success. The reason being that they are sometimes arrived at by and through “error or impure motives,” and sometimes by trickery. Think of the number of people who have been scammed and duped by pyramid and ponzi schemes. Think of the people who have been led astray by believers who have told them what they wanted to hear instead of the truth.

Early in my ministry I struggled in this area. I did not have a problem with impure motives or theological error, but I thought I could please everyone. All I succeeded in doing was angering everyone and making myself seemingly schizophrenic. Regardless of what this world regards as success such material and carnal accomplishments run contrary to the standard of the Bible. Be careful of those who seek to flatter you or lavish you with praise. Be cautious when it comes to believing the good reports about you today. They may change dramatically tomorrow. Be zealous in maintaining your integrity as you minister and witness. Test your motives even as God tests the heart. Take off the mask of insincerity and be who God has called you to be because He is our witness and He is watching.

Dear God, we do not want to be insincere, but sometimes it is hard to hold on to our integrity. We are so often surrounded by opulence that we are tempted to seek the things others have acquired for ourselves. We confess we want to be appreciated, loved and respected and are tempted to do the things that please people whether or not they please You. Help us today to maintain a singular focus. Keep our eyes set upon You and Your Word. Guard our ears so they block out every sound that does not comes from You. Let the aroma of Your love fill our nostrils so we may be more like You. May we today live in the light of Your glory and be content. Amen.