We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.
1 Thessalonians 2:6 NIV
Not Looking for Praise
Here are some quotes that offer praise to Canada. Mark Leiren-Young said, “Real Canada is where people wear sweaters for survival, not style.” Marshall McLuhan said, “Canada is the only country in the world that knows how to live without an identity.” Barack Obama said, “Canada is one of the most impressive countries in the world.” John A MacDonald, our first Prime Minister, said: “Let us be French, let us be English, but most importantly let us be Canadian!”
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Many of us are almost afraid to check out a Christian news website these days for fear of reading about yet another pastor or church leader that has had to step aside from ministry because of some sexual sin or abuse of leadership that has come to light. It seems almost rampant these days. Paul writes this to the Christians in Thessalonica in 1 Thessalonians 2:6: “We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.” Sometimes in life, it’s tempting to lead out of pride, to chase recognition, or to demand our due. Paul reminds us that true ministry—true leadership—is never about elevating ourselves. It’s about serving with a pure heart, laying down rights for the sake of others. Think about the ways God has called you to influence others—in your family, your workplace, your community. Are you serving with a heart that seeks glory, or are you following Paul’s example, giving freely, humbly, and lovingly? True influence is not measured by accolades or authority but by the lives we live, the hearts we touch, and the integrity with which we serve.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley