All Honor and Glory to Him…….
Romans 12:5-7 New Living Translation (NLT)
5 so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.
6 In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. 7 If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well.
The world’s definition of success differs greatly from God’s. Take the role of a pastor, for example–it would be easy to accept accolades for church growth, as many people equate high attendance numbers with a minister’s effectiveness. But the Lord desires that we obey Him with humility. Whether we draw a crowd or not, success is measured by obedience.
This looks different for each believer. Some Christians have very visible jobs, so their efforts are public and obvious. Others serve Christ in quiet, less noticeable ways.
God bestows upon His followers gifts tailored to each one’s ordained assignments. The Holy Spirit reveals our calling, and we’re to give our best effort. Of course, no matter what the task may be, the result will be worthless unless the Father breathes life into it. In other words, we are entrusted with God-appointed work. He assigns the duty, provides the skills, and causes growth. The Lord deserves all of the glory. We are blessed simply to be a part of His plan.
As mere vessels that God uses, we should be thankful for anything He accomplishes through us. And by giving Him all the credit, we need never feel defeated with disappointment. Rather, in spite of how things may appear, we trust Him to achieve His good purpose.
Honor is misplaced unless it goes directly to the One who creates, sanctifies, and sustains. God created you for specific tasks to further His kingdom. He wants to use your life–and will allow you to watch His powerful hand at work. Listen for His leading, and praise Him for all He accomplishes.
I’ve spent much of this week not only resting, but getting “spiritually” prepared for the upcoming November workshop. It is a constant goal of Jim’s and mine to direct all praise back to the One who deserves all the praise! We have been so tremendously blessed with wonderful new friends, brothers and sisters in Christ. We’ve has fantastic experiences and this is only the beginning. Several times a day I reach down and hold the little cross I wear around my neck and thank Him for how much He loves us, and how much He sacrificed for you and I!!!
Blessings,
the pilgrim
Copyright: In Touch Devotional for Thursday, October 25th, 2012
This entry was posted on Thursday, October 25th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
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You said “…we need never feel defeated with disappointment. Rather, in spite of how things may appear, we trust Him to achieve His good purpose.”
Man that hits home with me. I usually feel disappointed with what I do.