May 24, 2022
What does it say?
Paul and Barnabas taught and did miracles in Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe and then went back through the cities to encourage the disciples there to remain true to the faith.
What does it mean?
God enabled Paul and Barnabas to perform miracles, which offered validity to their message of God’s grace through Jesus. Everything they did was in His name. The very thought of accepting honor for what only God could do caused them a deep sense of grief. Paul was willing to be humiliated rather than assert the rights of Roman citizenry after being stoned. When people came to faith in Christ, he did not steal the spotlight by looking for sympathy in suffering or personal praise. Rather, he remained aware of how God could use him, responded when led by the Holy Spirit, and gave God all the glory.
How should I respond?
Modern American culture tends to be self-centered and self-serving. Most of us are quick to dodge blame and even faster to grab glory. Even followers of Christ can fall into this kind of faulty thinking. In order to keep pride at bay, follow Paul’s example and shift your focus from personal praise to God’s purpose (1 Thess. 2:1-5). How willing would you be to volunteer at church if you received no recognition at all? What desire for personal recognition might God be asking you to put aside for a greater purpose? Wholeheartedly give God the credit for what He is doing through your obedience.