One Voice

1 Thessalonians 1:3-6 ~

For our exhortation didn’t come from error or impurity or an intent to deceive. Instead, just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please men, but rather God, who examines our hearts. For we never used flattering speech, as you know, or had greedy motives—God is our witness— and we didn’t seek glory from people, either from you or from others. 

Paul is writing to the church at Thessalonica and reminds them here that even though he could have pulled rank as an apostle and received accolades and recognition in that role, he didn't approach them that way. His motive was to please God and not man. The only voice he was listening to was the Lord's.

It seems lately that I get that reminder over and over again no matter what passage of scripture I'm reading. I have a tendency to be a people pleaser and it can be exhausting. I find that many times my energy is spent making sure no one is ever upset or angry with me. 

My desire is to tune out those internal and external voices that drag me down to a place of self-deprecation and learning to listen to the one voice that should be my only focus - the voice of God. He should be the only one that I seek to please.

I think this is difficult for many of people, especially those who heard nothing but criticism growing up. It causes us to want to make sure nothing disrupts the delicate balance of peace in our lives. But this is impossible to do. That's because no matter how much you try, someone at sometime is going to disagree with you and potentially be upset.

True internal peace will come as we learn to only listen to the voice of God and follow His leading. His judgment is the only one that should matter. 

The way that this happens is first of all, knowing what God says about you. Dig into His word and read some of the affirmations He gives to His people. The second way is to know whose opinion really matters. God is the one who examines our hearts and knows our motives. His approval should be the only we seek. And finally, if you struggle in this way, remember it is a daily and intentional determination to not fall into the trap of trying to please everyone. Because I do struggle in this way, I have to remind myself on a daily basis that other people's approval or disapproval is not my goal. 

My heart's desire and goal is to listen to the One Voice in my life that truly matters.