Daily Devotional Tuesday 1-23-07

Psalm 115:1
Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth’s sake.

“It was nothing.”
”It’s good, if I do say so myself.”
“How did I do?”

How do you accept compliments or praise? What is the proper way to respond? Knowing God hates “a proud look,” yet desiring acceptance and appreciation for our efforts, most Christians find this a difficult dilemma.
In my college days, I attended a global missions conference. The attendance superceded all expectations. Overflowing meeting rooms and overcrowded accommodations could have thrown the college students steering the event. Instead, they rose to the challenge, and God challenged many young lives that weekend—mine included.
In the final service, the crowd gave the student committee leader a standing ovation. She came to the podium, and I will never forget her words. “Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory.”
No other response deemed necessary, she returned to her seat. But the crowd remained standing for another spontaneous ovation to the LORD and for this humble servant.
I’ve never forgotten this. Each time I read through the Psalms, I’m challenged to consider my responses to praise. Do I seize the glory, or do I humbly direct it to the LORD, who equips and enables me? Is it about accomplishment or about mercy and truth?

O LORD, may we honor Your name and give You glory, today. Amen.

PRAYER CORNER

Many adult children who’ve assumed the role of caregiver for aged parents would appreciate your prayers today.