JESUS SPEAKING
“Do we not say rightly that You are a Samaritan and have a demon?” Jesus answered, “I do not have a demon; but I honor my Father, and you dishonor Me. And I do not seek My own glory; there is One who speaks and judges. Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see Death.” (John 8: 48 – 51)
FAITHFUL THOUGHTS
Jesus was accused by some of being demonically possessed. He responded by reminding them of His perfect commitment to honoring God. He said, “I do not seek My own glory:” thereby insinuating that genuine faith can be discerned in the lives of others based upon whether they are seeking to bring glory to God, rather than themselves. All of our kind actions and loving behaviors are meant to direct others toward our eternal Father (and His only begotten Son Jesus Christ.)
Many years ago I journeyed to an orphanage in Mexico to assist with improving their dilapidated facility. After some hard work, we eventually departed, driving toward the crowded border crossing on our way home. As we waited in traffic, someone in need approached our vehicle, begging for money. I pulled out some cash and handed it to them. I said, “This is from Jesus Christ;” giving God all of the glory for this act of kindness. Sometime later I bumped into a girl at the Church bookstore. Apparently she had been with me in the car that day. She told me that what I had said seemed strange to her at the time. And yet, after she had grown in her faith, she had finally understood what I was doing. I was giving the honor and glory to God.
Those who are faithfully committed to following Christ must avoid seeking glory for themselves; but rather, they must seek to glorify God in every good work they accomplish. We read in Colossians 3: 17, “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” May we all learn what it means to be selfless, and to render unto God all of the glory and honor He is due.
“Lord Heavenly Father, pour out Your Spirit into our hearts and minds, that we might seek to accomplish many good works in Your name, while giving You all of the glory and honor and praise. May we practice genuine selflessness as we continue to lay down our lives in service to others. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!
Jesus Speaks 