All Glory Belongs to God

Isn’t it the most wonderful feeling when a close friend of yours comes to believe in Christ? Or how about the warm feeling of satisfaction that fills you as you see your months of hard preparation for a convocation, seminar or choir presentation finally come to fruition?

Brothers and sisters might pat you on the back for your preaching work, might praise your dedication and admire your commitment. And you in turn, might encourage their praise with a long personal account of how you introduced your friend to the truth or explain how you took on challenges and different trials when carrying out various divine works.

And there it is. The one thing you’ve forgotten to mention in the midst of all the attention. The one individual you’ve unwittingly moved to the back seat: God. God who called your friend to His family; God who gave you the opportunity to work for Him, to prepare His convocations and His seminars.

Paul reminded the Corinthian Christians that “neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but [it is] God who gives the increase” (1 Cor 3:7). Although we might work hard, dedicate ourselves and commit ourselves to Him, it is God who makes all things possible. It is God’s hand that shapes church success and ultimately, God who deserves all our praises and glory.

So the next time a friend agrees to attend a service or someone praises you for the work you have performed, remind your fellow brothers and sisters (and remind yourself!) that you are just a vessel for Him and all the glory belongs to God.

 

            Questions for Reflection:

A brother or sister praises your work at church: how will you react? What will you say to him/her?

Have you ever felt proud or enjoyed praises others might give you for church work? How can you give the glory back to God?