Pleasing Others!

Pleasing others is a GOOD way to make and keep peace. This is true in the relationship between husbands and wives. It is true among siblings and within families in general. Considering the interests of others is a path to peace within the church rather than merely thinking of our own interests. ( Philippians 2:4) Consideration of others in society at large can also lead toward peacefulness. However, when it comes to pleasing, there are two important factors to consider.

Note the first factor stated by the Apostles when their message was rejected.
“But Peter and the apostles answered, ‘WE MUST OBEY GOD RATHER THAN MEN.’” ( Acts 5:29 ESV)

What is pleasing to God must always be given first consideration. The Apostles could not be stopped because their first priority was to please God.

Though Paul aimed to be all things to all men that he might win them to Christ ( 1 Corinthians 9:19-22), had he merely attempted to do what was pleasing to men, he would not have been a servant of Christ. ( Galatians 1:10) As he preached the Gospel of Jesus, for Paul, pleasing God ( 1 Thessalonians 2:4) took first place above all else.

Note a second factor stated by Paul in his letter to the church at Rome.
“Let each of us PLEASE HIS NEIGHBOR FOR HIS GOOD, to build him up.” ( Romans 15:2 ESV)

Yes, pleasing others is something for us to consider. However, did you note Paul did not say to please others simply for “their” pleasure? The pleasing was to be for THEIR GOOD! Consideration is to be with regard to what will benefit and build others up rather than tearing them down. And the ultimate GOOD we should consider for others is what will draw their attention toward God and His Will.

Pleasing God, then others, and lastly himself appears to have been the submissive way Paul went about his ministry. Paul was mindful of setting a proper example and his life is worth considering because of the way in which he tried to follow the example of Christ. (i.e. 1 Corinthians 11:1) May we continue to seek to please God and then others for THEIR GOOD. In the process we will find much GOOD for ourselves.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A SERVANT’S HEART!
Carl

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