Worship

Scripture

About 7 years ago I was a part of a mission trip in Costa Rica. It was a week long, but I had to work and study at the time so I had to leave and couldn’t be a part of the whole trip. When I told my leader about missing the final event because of a big project, he told me that he wanted me to be there and that it would not be the same without me there. Whether or not that was true, at the time it meant the world to me. I remember going back home and working extremely hard to get everything done to be able to go to this final event. I made it. What stood out to me was how my leader’s words resounded in my heart. How feeling seen and wanted inspired me to do what was necessary to show up! 

In the scriptures we read today, we can see how high in esteem honor was during this time. David honored the guys who buried Saul and Jonathan, while killing the messenger that drew the sword to kill him. Joab waited a long to to kill Abner as a way of honoring the death of his brother Asahel. They were acknowledging their value in a way that was true to them. Now, I’m not suggesting you go and kill someone out of honor, but I think we can learn something from the way they treated each other. 

The truth is, we all want to be seen, heard, honored, and valued. We want people to see our value and acknowledge it. We want to be honored for our accomplishments and praised for our conquered battles, talents, hard work, or simply for being who we are. There is nothing inherently wrong with that inner desire that can only be filled by Jesus. Though in the midst of it, we have to care for our pride. Jesus says in Matthew 6 that we should not do things to be seen or for the praises of people. Those who do, already got their reward. Now hear me, there’s nothing wrong with showing someone honor or acknowledging their talents, contributions, etc. In fact, I believe it is something that we ought to do. We have to build people up instead of bringing them down. Yet we ought to do it in a way that makes them feel the truth that they are seen, known, cared, and loved by Jesus. We do this by pointing people to the truth that it is Jesus who can fulfill their desires. 

Prayer

HONOR GOD

Our Maker is intently listening to us, right now. Take a moment and share with Him how thankful you are that He’s with us!

ASK GOD

The Lord renews our mind and purifies our thoughts. What are some thoughts you need to give to the Lord? Share those with Him now.

SUBMIT TO GOD

The Lord deserves eternal praise. Finish your prayer time giving praise for eternal things. Go beyond the earthly to what lasts forever!
CLOSING PRAYER
Father, thank you for the sacrifice You made through Christ. Thank you for all of the provision You have shown throughout my life, and that You for the provision I know you will continue to show me. Father, thank you for your Spirit that resides within me and the conviction He brings. Father, search me and identify what things I am holding onto that You want laid on the altar. Help me to let go of these things so that I may be closer to You, so that I may know you better, and display my faithfulness. Nothing I possess is more precious that you, Lord. In Jesus name,  Amen.