IN ALL THINGS, SEEK TO PLEASE GOD!

SATURDAY AUGUST 22

“Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts.” 1Th 2:4 NLT

A young man studied violin under a world-renowned violinist and master teacher. He worked hard for several years perfecting his talent. The day finally came when he was called upon to give his first major public recital in a large city where both he and his teacher lived. Following each selection, which he performed with great skill and passion, the performer seemed uneasy about how to handle all the applause he was receiving. Even though he knew that those in the audience were musically astute and not likely to give such applause to a less than superior performance, the young man acted almost as if he couldn’t hear the appreciation that was being showered upon him. At the close of the last number he performed, the applause was thunderous, and numerous “bravos” were shouted. The talented young violinist had his eyes glued, however, on only one spot. Finally, when an elderly man in the first row of the balcony smiled and nodded to him in approval, the young man relaxed and beamed with both relief and joy. His teacher had praised his work! The applause of thousands meant nothing to him until he had first won the approval of his master. That was Paul’s aim too, and it should be yours. “For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts” (v. 4 NLT). So the word for you today is this: In all things, seek to please God!