“Our purpose is to please God, not people. He is the one who examines the motives of our hearts. Never once did we try to win you with flattery, as you very well know. And God is our witness that we were not just pretending to be your friends so you would give us money!”
— 1 Thessalonians 2:4 – 5 (NLT)
When someone who rarely speaks to you suddenly gushes with praise about your “ultracool outfit” or your “brilliant science project” or “your totally fabulous hair,” don’t you smell something fishy? Most of us have a good nose for false praise and flattery. Our first thought is: Okay, what do you want from me? Have you caught yourself doing the same thing with friends sometimes? Do you give honest praise? Or do you flatter someone so she’ll invite you to her pizza party, let you borrow her cool sweater, or give you a ride to the game?
Paul says in this verse that personal profit was never his aim in treating his friends well: “nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed” (1 Thessalonians 2:5). Don’t wear a phony mask with your friends. Don’t try to hide the reasons for things you say and do. Be honest with your praise, but watch your reasons for it. Do it out of love, not to get something in return.
More to Explore: James 4:4
Girl Talk: Look at your friendships. Are you friends because you honestly like them or because of what they can give you?
God Talk: “Lord, I sometimes think too selfishly. Help me to be honest with everyone I meet, including you. Thank you for your loving care. Amen.”
From Girlz Rock by Kristi Holl