May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation - the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ - for this will bring much glory and praise to God (Phil. 1:11).
Most of us have a childlike need to be acknowledged, accepted and even hugged now and then. Sometimes it becomes a childish yearning for prominence and fame. Someone said on occasion, “Even the greatest long for a gentle touch.”
When writing to the people of Philippi, Paul showered them with praise and appreciation. They made him happy and were his partners in the gospel. God started a good work in them and they had a special place in his heart. His deepest desire was that they would grow to maturity. Everything they had already achieved and everything that was still to happen through their faith and good works dare not make them proud of their spiritual achievements. Their good qualities could be solely attributed to Christ and the Holy Spirit working in them.
Don’t pursue honor and glory for yourself. Don’t strive to see your name prominently displayed when you have done something worthwhile for God. Give God the credit and glory. Be prepared to stand aside and let other people praise God for what He did in and through you. Don’t destroy Christ’s work by your efforts to turn the spotlight on yourself. Thank the Lord that you were able to be involved and give Him all the honor and glory.
Lord my God, let the glory always go where it is due: to You. Amen.
Read Philippians 1:1-11
