1 Thessalonians 2: 5 You know very well that
we did not come to you with flattering talk, nor did we use words to cover up
greed—God is our witness! 6 We did not try to get praise from anyone,
either from you or from others, 7 even though as apostles of Christ we
could have made demands on you. But we were gentle when we were with you, like
a mother taking care of her children.
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Hearing the lie, I crafted
my words to counter what was said. When the person heard my words, he countered
with insults. Now that I was insulted, I really had to give it to him. I
countered with more words. What were we even talking about?
- I got mad during the conversation.
- I wanted to be “heard” so I kept using more words.
- I eventually used words that were rough and coarse.
Paul, Silas and
Timothy lived with the people of Thessalonica. During this time they encountered
day to day circumstances that could have turned into arguments, but they chose
not to. They also refrained from flattering words to cover up greed, like some
of the speakers who had done so in the past.
My Observations
- Flattering talk can get me to a certain point, BUT GOD wants my words to speak of HIS truth.
- Seeking the right words, only to gain money, can get me wealthy in a greedy way, BUT GOD wants my words to be rich and full of HIS treasures.
- Following famous people and praising their prowess can get me liked so I can fit in, BUT GOD deserves to be mentioned over all.
“Toughen up” or “Take
the hill” or “Fight” sound like words of a leader, but there are times when
these qualities don’t fit. I mean, when a baby is crying and he or she cannot
communicate what is wrong, it takes gentleness to figure out the solution to
the baby’s problem.
Gentleness overcomes
insecurity, greed and loneliness. How? It removes the desire to need to “fit in”
and replaces it with GOD’s purpose. Gentleness knows people will make mistakes
and reacts slowly with HIS solution. It makes no demands because gentleness is
stronger than brute force. I am glad JESUS is gentle with me.
Challenge
- What alternative to flattering words, greed and praising humans do the writers speak of?
- Have you ever sought out praise or felt a little greedy or placed demands on others?
- Will you learn of GOD’s gentleness and mimic HIS love for other’s today?
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