| For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. | ||
| 1 Thessalonians 2:5-6 | ||
| Whether it be in the business world, the sports world, or the arena of ministry, don’t covet someone else’s position. Don’t say, ‘I want that cloak; I want that spot, so I’ll use whatever flattery or treachery it takes to get it.’ I am reminded of the account in I Kings 22 ... ‘Listen Joe,’ said King Ahab of Israel to King Jehoshaphat of Judah, ‘I’ve got a problem with the Syrians. So let’s form an alliance and battle them together at Ramoth Gilead.’ Jehoshaphat agreed and upon his arrival at Ramoth Gilead, found Ahab waiting for him. According to the Septuagint, Ahab suggested Jehoshaphat wear his royal robes. Jehoshaphat agreed, and off they went into battle. Unbeknownst to Jehoshaphat, however, the Syrian army had been instructed to spare everyone save the king of Israel. Consequently, imagine Jehoshaphat’s surprise when, cloaked in the king of Israel’s robes, he found the entire Syrian army heading straight for him. ‘Wait a minute! I didn’t ask for this,’ you’ll say as the arrows of criticism fly towards you. Oh, but you did when you coveted that position on the team, that space in the office, that spot behind the pulpit. That’s why Paul didn’t come to the Thessalonians with flattery and manipulation. Instead, he came with simplicity and honesty. | ||
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