Thoughts on Today's Verse...
I love the old saying, "He who toots his own horn plays in a very small band!" A very selfish part of us wants all attention and appreciation focused on what we have done, sacrificed, and accomplished. One of the signs of spiritual maturity that Paul lists here, however, is a devotion to others who are our fellow Christians. This maturity means that we genuinely rejoice when others are honored. We are even more interested in honoring others than receiving honor. That is what devotion to others means. We care more about them being honored than us being honored, like Christ (Philippians 2:1-11). And Christ Jesus told us that if we seek honor and recognition now, we have our reward now, on earth, and we won't receive our reward in heaven (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21).
My Prayer...
Dear God, my loving Father, thank you for surrounding me with many godly and honorable people. Please help me see ways I can show my brothers and sisters in Christ my love, admiration, and appreciation. And dear Father, please lead me to your people who need this love, affirmation, and honor. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
