"Beware of Manipulators"

Paul was an example of purity and devotion to the Lord. He reminded the Thessalonians, "For our exhortation does not come from error or impurity or by way of deceit; but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts. For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, not with a pretext for greed." (I Thes. 2:3-5)

There are too many manipulators in the church! A manipulator uses the art of deceit and flattery to gain control or use of another. Manipulation is the subtle art of managing, controlling or influencing people to a desired end. It amazes me how many use guilt in order to manipulate someone to doing what they want. These type of manipulators make a person feel guilty over something when nothing sinful has been committed. We have heard them and preachers can be the world's worst manipulators. They shame people into getting things done. I was on a campaign once and the preacher told the brethren that the proof of their love and devotion is seen in their service to Him. The next day he expected all to be out door knocking if they really loved the Lord. What a horrible thing to say! Some people make others feel obligated to get what they want out of them. Listen, there is NO condemnation for those in Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:1). To use guilt to manipulate someone is evil to the core, especially when no sin has been committed! To the one holding to the Jesus, clinging to the cross with all their heart and trying, there is no condemnation!

Other means of manipulation are seen in intimidation, flattery, anger, tears, coldness, brashness, moodiness and dominance. These are some of the major tools used. Charismatic people are often praised for their ability to get people moving when they are doing nothing more than getting people to follow them, to do their will. They are great at manipulating emotions!

We must not be manipulators. Paul wasn't nor many of the others in the first century. Just listen to this: "But concerning Apollos our brother, I encouraged him greatly to come to you with the brethren; and it was not at all his desire to come now, but he will come when he has opportunity." (I Cor. 16:12) The apostle of Jesus Christ encouraged Apollos to go to Corinth. What did Apollos do? He didn't want to go and Paul let it go! No lord! No guilt! Just simply encouraged and knew it was up to Apollos. That's called true love.

We cannot prey upon the goodness or weakness of someones emotions. God condemns the manipulation of people! When will we learn that we need to allow people to respond or act out of their own convictions, what they want to do to please the Lord, choosing to do God's will on their own. The next time someone uses manipulation to get you to do something, ask yourself, "Is it sin?" and if you're not sure, ask, "Where's the verse?" Manipulators are not serving the Lord. They are self seeking and self serving. Beware of manipulators!!!