I am thankful that the apostle Paul lets us in on some of his own internal conflicts. In the book of 1 Corinthians, he appears to be stung by some of the criticisms he was receiving from the Corinthian church. In the process of explaining his reaction to this, he admits that even his ability to evaluate himself falls short.
I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God. 1 Corinthians 4:2-5
He says, 'my conscience is clear...but that does not make me innocent.' Only God knows the heart. Only God is capable of evaluating our motives and actions. So it makes no sense to defend yourself. Ultimately, God is the judge.
Then he gives some very clear direction: WORK FOR THE PRAISE OF GOD.
In the end, His is the only opinion that matters. So work for an audience of One! Please God and everything else will work itself out. My opinion doesn't matter. Your opinion doesn't matter. The opinion of the multitudes doesn't matter. If God is pleased - then I have lived my life well.
