How We Do What We Do

1 Thessalonians 2:3-8 (ESV)

[3] For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, [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. [5] For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed— God is witness. [6] Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ. [7] But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. [8] So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us. 

A desire to please God: with a desire to please God many “potholes” in ministry can be avoided.  Having this desire in any ministry in any capacity keeps the focus where it needs to be and goes beyond any appearance of evil. Why do you volunteer for Sunday School teaching? Is it to look good in front of the pastor or is it a chance for you to please God? 

Do you like being involved with the decision process at church? Why? Because you want to reach the community for Christ and help mature the Body? Or do you just like having some power?

Paul even mentions that he was not doing ministry to gain in money. That is a trap for many full-time ministers. How can they avoid it? A desire to please God is put before everything. When dealing with people, focus on walking with them in Christ. If you love the Lord, share that love with others (and that includes those that are new in Christ and those hurt by people in the church). Matthew 22:37-39 is the key here: Love God and love others. If what you do isn’t out of love for the Lord and others then you are open to the “potholes” in ministry.