I Thessalonians 2

“For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed--God is witness. Nor did we seek glory from people” (v5-6).  Paul declared that he and the other apostles had brought the good news to the Thessalonians with a sincere desire to “please God” (v4).  The good news was certainly for the benefit of the Thessalonians, but Paul kept his eyes on God’s approval, not man’s, to avoid the traps of people-pleasing and ego-inflation.

 “We were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves” (v8).  When our primary goal is to please God, the end result is stronger, more authentic relationships with others.