Our Sunday School teacher summarized 1 Corinthians and the lessons he has shared these past many weeks. Service was nicely full of families ready to celebrate with Mothers.
Pastor’s message was the first in a new series he has titled “Life Skills”. He noted that Moms teach many things to children; many skills to help become a successful person in life. These lessons and skills include things like respect, manners, perseverance, planning, communication, listening, having fun, laughing a lot, relationships, kindness, and much more. A lot of the best things we learn by the age of 5.
Godly mothers hopefully teach that God comes first; family is important but not as important as God. Showing honor is a skill that will never fail you. It is more than respect or good manners. One of the commandments tells us: “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12. Ephesians 6:1 reiterates this noting that it is the first commandment with a promise. That chapter also admonishes fathers not to provoke their children but it does say that children are to be brought up with training and instruction of the Lord.
Point: Honor is a reflection of the character of God in our attitude and actions.
A mature person sees beyond his or her immediate feelings such as hurt, anger, disappointment, etc. God loves us, we didn't have to earn it.
Ephesians 6:5-8 goes on to direct slaves to submit to “your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart… 7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people,…”
We need to give respect and honor even to those we disagree with. The message is “honor everyone”, love the family of believers, and respect the king. There are different levels (respect, honor, love) but the bottom line is the same: give deference to others.
We should be seeking to outdo each other in showing honor; love each other, take delight...Romans 12:9-18.
Our world does the opposite of what God wants. They belittle and name call. They exhibit selfishness saying “I want it my way, now”.
What does honor look like?
John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
There is a proper order and priority. “ Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.” Proverbs 21:21.
Pursue what God wants first.
Honor in this life does not equate to honor in God's world, in eternity. We are directed to honor God and others. All men are created in His image and therefore worthy of love.
We sang this song this morning and I loved it.
Verses for TodayRomans 12:10-18
10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Lord, I pray that you help me to always honor others as You direct us to do.
Thanks for sharing :)
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