S – Instead, just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please people, but rather God, who examines our hearts.

1 Thessalonians 2:4 CSB

O – Commentary:

Paul and his fellow missionaries were veterans; they had been tried and tested for years. God would not have blessed their work if their motivation had not been right. Paul saw himself as a steward entrusted by God to carry His message of salvation to lost men and women (cf. 1 Cor. 9:17). Paul did not choose his work; God selected him for the high calling of proclaiming the gospel. This responsibility was most significant to Paul, who viewed himself as under God’s constant scrutiny. So he would not dare serve with the wrong motives.

“1 Thessalonians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – Another word for examine is “tests.”  Like Paul, all we think, say and do are under God’s watch.  Some believe God tests us or watches us to see us fail.  I think he is observing to see us grow and win.  When we hit the mark, he is like a proud parent of the growth.  When we don’t, his love doesn’t waiver and he desires us more.

R – Heavenly Father, you are all-knowing and you have no lack.  Thank you for trusting us with the message of the gospel.  We desire to grow in our faith and knowledge of you.