In the world we live in, we are bombarded with news of everything that happens. Most of the time it is bad news that is reported first. While the news most often reports the bad, there are still a lot of good things going on all around us. What fascinates me is how the majority responds to good news. We are people who are very curious. We want to know who is responsible, and all the details of a situation. If it is a good thing, there is always someone who is quick to take the credit. We are filled with pride and eager to support that pride by telling others of our accomplishments. While we may enjoy the accolades that others give us, there are consequences to being prideful. The Bible teaches us in James 1:17, that every good gift comes from God, so who should get the credit?
James 1:17 “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
In Acts 12:21-22, we see Herod so full of pride. Historians tell us it was the second day of the sports and games which were celebrated in honor of Claudius Caesar. He had a garment that was made of silver and when he stood to address the crowd from his prominent seat, it glistened in the sun. The crowd began to praise him and say that the voice was of a god. He was enjoying this moment until God had enough. The Bible says immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, he died, and worms ate him. God will not share his glory with anyone.
Act 12:21-23 “And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them. And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man. And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.”
In Deuteronomy 5:9, we are reminded that God is a jealous god. He will not share His glory with anything or anyone. Everything we do is to be done for His glory and honor. He and he alone is responsible for anything good that comes our way. Every breath we take is a result of his love for us. We should never take the credit, or take for granted the things God has done.
Deuteronomy 5:9 “Thou shalt not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God”
I Corinthians 10:31 “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Daniel was a great example of giving God the glory in Daniel 2:26-28. When the King wanted him to interpret his dream, Daniel told him the meaning was from God. Daniel let it be known that he was only the messenger. When we are praised for anything we do, we should be quick to give God the credit. We are to be humble, not boastful, and proud. We are told over and over in scripture to humble ourselves. That is the opposite of pride. God is the creator, the giver of all things good, the master of the universe, and He deserves to be praised and honored for all that He does.
Micah 6:8 “He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”
James 4:6 “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
For those who give Him the credit for everything, He will reward in His time and His way. So, the next time you receive a compliment or someone pats you on the back for a job well done, remember, ALL the glory belongs to Him, always, and forever!
James 4:10 “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
