Pleasing Speech!

It is wise to choose our words well. The manner in which they impact others is important to consider. That is why the Scriptures encourage us toward our speech being gracious and seasoned with salt ( Colossians 4:6), as well as the truth being spoken in love. ( Ephesians 4:15) Also, gracious words can be sweet as honeycomb. ( Proverbs 16:24) However, this is not suggesting we "sugar coat" our speech simply to please others or to flatter them with what they merely desire to hear. Paul warned Timothy of the time that was coming when people would surround themselves with those who would teach what they wanted to hear. (see 2 Timothy 4:3-4) If we merely speak to please others -- though that may keep them from getting mad at us -- it will never bring them the opportunity to hear what they might most need.

The world is filled with "people pleasers" and one can go crazy trying to please everyone around them. Because of that some suggest the best thing to be true to is yourself. Such may be fine if that is directly linked to being true to what God has declared. In all situations and conversations we ought to be true to who we are as believers in God, but with the ultimate goal being that of PLEASING GOD! That is the higher focus that serves to bring the greatest potential for benefit to others as well as ourselves.

In Paul's first letter to the church at Thessalonica, he reminded them of how he had been when in their presence. They had developed a wonderful relationship and the work of the Christians there continued well. Desiring the best for them, Paul's focus remained on God's view.

Paul stated. . .
"(4) but just as we have been approved by God to be ENTRUSTED WITH THE GOSPEL, so WE SPEAK, NOT TO PLEASE MAN, BUT TO PLEASE GOD who tests our hearts." ( 1 Thessalonians 2:4 ESV)

Paul held true to the message he had received because in all things he aimed to PLEASE GOD! In his letter to the churches of Galatia he noted that if he had still been trying to please man he would not have been a servant of Christ. ( Galatians 1:10) When Paul had lived for the praise of men he had been a persecutor of the church. Having surrendered his life to Christ it had become the Lord's approval that meant the most to him.

What about us? Who most are we seeking to please? How is that being revealed in our life action and our conversation with others? Though our speech may sound pleasing is it remaining PLEASING TO GOD? As He tests our heart may it be found true to His Will.

Have a great day FAITHFUL TO THE TRUTH ENTRUSTED TO US!
Carl

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