In today's devotion, Henry Blackaby talked about how God tends to honor those who honor Him first. Conversely, God often punishes those who choose to despise or reject him. This principle is certainly illustrated in the story of Eli's sons quoted in 1 Samuel 2 and the punishment God brought to his family as a result of his sin. It is also illustrated on a larger scale the general sense of justice that God displays in salvation and damnation. Those who choose to honor God by pursuing and worshipping Him are welcomed into an eternal relationship with Him while those who reject His offer of grace are given exactly what they desire: eternity apart from His presence.
One thing that must be kept in mind, however, is that God is still a God of grace. If you think about this long enough, you might ask: How is honoring those who honor you gracious? The reality is, all of us have despised God in one way or another and no one has honored Him rightfully in all areas of life (Rom 3:23)....no one, except Jesus. When we trust in Christ for our salvation, we are admitting that we have rejected God and are incapable of giving Him the honor He deserves. Furthermore, we place our faith in the HONORable life that Jesus lived and believe that His righteousness is supplied for us. In this way, our old, despising self dies away, and our new life is "hidden with Christ in God" (Col 3:3).
Thus, God truly honors those who honor Him. And while this principle is displayed throughout the Old Testament, it is chiefly shown to us in the grace of salvation through Jesus Christ. God honors Jesus who first honored Him perfectly on our behalf. Therefore, "when Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory" (Col 3:4) ... to be honored by God.
- Matt Haste, College & Singles Minister
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