Embracing Honor: A Call to Reverence and Respect

Devotional

Day 1: Being Spirit-Led

Being led by the Spirit is the foundation of our spiritual journey. Just as the Israelites followed God in the wilderness, we are called to seek and follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of our lives. This means making decisions, big and small, with a heart attuned to God's voice. It requires a posture of listening, waiting, and responding to the Spirit's promptings. When we are Spirit-led, we align ourselves with God's will and purpose, ensuring that our actions and decisions reflect His desires for us.

Being Spirit-led also involves a deep trust in God's timing and direction. It means surrendering our own plans and desires, and allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us, even when the path is unclear or challenging. This foundational value sets the stage for understanding our identity and authority in Christ, as we learn to rely on the Spirit's wisdom and strength in all things. [01:11:41]

Isaiah 30:21 (ESV): "And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left."

Reflection: Think of a recent decision you made. Did you seek the Holy Spirit's guidance? How can you make seeking His direction a daily habit?

Day 2: Honoring God in Daily Life

Honoring God is not confined to our Sunday worship but is a daily practice that permeates every aspect of our lives. Whether at work, home, or in any situation, we must constantly ask ourselves if our actions honor God. This continuous reflection helps us align our lives with His will and ensures that we live in a way that brings glory to Him. Honoring God daily involves making choices that reflect His character and values, even when no one is watching.

This practice of daily honor requires intentionality and mindfulness. It means being aware of how our words, actions, and attitudes reflect our relationship with God. By consistently evaluating our behavior and making adjustments to align with God's standards, we demonstrate our commitment to living a life that pleases Him. This daily practice of honoring God helps us grow in our faith and strengthens our witness to others. [01:13:38]

Colossians 3:17 (ESV): "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Reflection: Identify one area of your daily routine where you can be more intentional about honoring God. What specific changes can you make to reflect His character in that area?

Day 3: Fear of the Lord

The fear of the Lord is not about being terrified but about recognizing His majesty and authority. This fear draws us closer to God, fostering a deep sense of reverence and humility. It is the beginning of true honor, as it helps us understand our place in relation to God's greatness. When we fear the Lord, we acknowledge His power and sovereignty, and we approach Him with the respect and awe that He deserves.

This reverence for God shapes our attitudes and actions, leading us to live in a way that honors Him. It influences our decisions, our interactions with others, and our worship. By cultivating a healthy fear of the Lord, we develop a deeper relationship with Him and grow in our understanding of His holiness and love. This fear is not about distance but about drawing near to God with a heart that is fully surrendered to His will. [01:21:53]

Proverbs 9:10 (ESV): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight."

Reflection: Reflect on your understanding of the fear of the Lord. How does this reverence for God influence your daily decisions and actions?

Day 4: Obedience as Honor

Obeying God's commands is a tangible way to show our love and honor for Him. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands." Our obedience reflects our commitment to living a life that pleases God and honors His authority. It is through our actions that we demonstrate our faith and devotion to Him. Obedience is not just about following rules but about aligning our hearts and lives with God's will.

This obedience requires a willingness to submit to God's authority and trust in His wisdom. It means making choices that reflect His values and commands, even when it is difficult or counter-cultural. By obeying God, we show that we value His guidance and desire to live in a way that brings glory to Him. This obedience is a powerful expression of our love for God and our desire to honor Him in all that we do. [01:27:47]

1 John 5:3 (ESV): "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome."

Reflection: Think of a command of God that you find challenging to obey. What steps can you take to align your actions with His will in this area?

Day 5: Honoring Spiritual Authority

Submitting to spiritual authority is crucial for our growth and equipping in ministry. It is not about ego but about positioning ourselves to receive and be blessed. Honoring those in spiritual leadership allows us to benefit from their wisdom and guidance. This principle extends to recognizing the value of spiritual leaders and the role they play in our spiritual development. By honoring spiritual authority, we open ourselves to the blessings and growth that come from their leadership.

This submission requires humility and a willingness to learn from those whom God has placed in positions of authority. It means respecting their guidance and being open to their correction and encouragement. By honoring spiritual authority, we demonstrate our trust in God's provision and His design for the church. This practice helps us grow in our faith and equips us to serve more effectively in the body of Christ. [01:33:25]

Hebrews 13:17 (ESV): "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you."

Reflection: Reflect on your attitude towards spiritual authority. How can you show greater respect and honor to those who lead you in your faith journey?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Today, we explored the profound theme of honor, which serves as the culmination of our series on the core values of our church. We began by reflecting on the importance of being Spirit-led, understanding our identity in Christ, recognizing our authority, and embracing humility. These foundational values naturally lead us to the ultimate goal: honoring God and others.

Honor is not just a superficial acknowledgment but a deep, intentional act of reverence and respect. We often claim to honor God, but our daily actions may not reflect this. We must constantly ask ourselves if we are truly honoring God in every situation. To illustrate this, we imagined the President of the United States visiting our church, noting the respect and reverence we would show. How much more should we honor the Holy Spirit, who is always present with us?

We discussed the biblical command to honor those in authority, even when we disagree with them. This includes praying for our leaders, as the early Christians did for Caesar despite severe persecution. Honoring God also means fearing Him—not in a way that makes us run from Him, but in a way that draws us closer, recognizing His majesty and authority.

Worship is another vital aspect of honoring God. It's not just about singing but participating in the sacrificial meal of communion, which signifies our deep connection with Christ. We also honor God by obeying His commands, which is a true expression of our love for Him. Living a holy life, free from sin, is crucial for our well-being and the well-being of those around us.

We also touched on the importance of honoring spiritual authority. Submitting to spiritual leaders is not about ego but about positioning ourselves to receive and grow. This principle extends to honoring one another, recognizing that every person is made in the image of God and deserves dignity and respect, regardless of their actions or beliefs.

Finally, we emphasized the need for humility in receiving honor. Jesus taught that those who humble themselves will be exalted. As we honor God and others, we naturally cultivate a community of love and respect, reflecting the kingdom of God.

###

Key Takeaways

1. Led**: Our journey begins with being led by the Spirit, just as the Israelites followed God in the wilderness. This foundational value ensures that we do nothing without God's guidance, setting the stage for understanding our identity and authority in Christ. [01:11:41]
2. Honoring God in Daily Life: Honoring God is not just a Sunday activity but a daily practice. Whether we are at work, home, or in any situation, we must constantly ask ourselves if our actions honor God. This continuous reflection helps us align our lives with His will.

3. Fear of the Lord: The fear of the Lord is not about being terrified but about recognizing His majesty and authority. This fear draws us closer to God, fostering a deep sense of reverence and humility. It is the beginning of true honor.

4. Obedience as Honor: Obeying God's commands is a tangible way to show our love and honor for Him. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands." Our obedience reflects our commitment to living a life that pleases God and honors His authority.

5. Honoring Spiritual Authority: Submitting to spiritual authority is crucial for our growth and equipping in ministry. It is not about ego but about positioning ourselves to receive and be blessed. Honoring those in spiritual leadership allows us to benefit from their wisdom and guidance.

### [71:41]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[71:14] - Introduction to Values
[71:41] - Being Spirit-Led
[72:05] - Identity in Christ
[72:33] - Authority in Christ
[72:59] - Humility
[73:38] - Honoring God
[74:10] - Imagining the President's Visit
[75:48] - Reverence for Authority
[76:20] - Praying for Leaders
[77:08] - King of Kings
[77:33] - 1 Corinthians 10:31-33
[78:41] - Honoring God in All We Do
[79:31] - Opportunities to Honor God
[81:53] - Fear of the Lord
[84:05] - Worship as Honor
[87:47] - Obedience as Honor
[89:02] - Living Holy Lives
[93:25] - Honoring Spiritual Authority
[97:13] - Honoring One Another
[104:12] - Receiving Honor with Humility
[106:03] - Closing Prayer and Reflection

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What does 1 Corinthians 10:31-33 instruct us to do in all aspects of our lives? How does this relate to honoring God? [01:17:33]
According to Matthew 10:40-41, what is the reward for welcoming a prophet or a righteous person? How does this passage emphasize the importance of honoring spiritual authority? [01:34:27]
In Hebrews 13:17, what reasons are given for submitting to church leaders? How does this passage connect to the sermon’s emphasis on honoring spiritual authority? [01:36:03]

Interpretation Questions

How does the concept of honoring God in 1 Corinthians 10:31-33 extend beyond just our actions to our attitudes and intentions? [01:17:33]
What does it mean to receive a prophet’s reward or a righteous person’s reward as mentioned in Matthew 10:40-41? How can this understanding impact our view of spiritual authority? [01:34:27]
Hebrews 13:17 speaks about leaders giving an account to God. How does this accountability affect the way we should view and interact with our church leaders? [01:36:03]

Application Questions

Reflect on your daily life. Are there specific areas where you struggle to honor God consistently? What steps can you take to improve in these areas? [01:13:38]
Think about a time when you disagreed with someone in authority. How did you handle it? How can you better honor those in authority, even when you disagree with them? [01:16:20]
How can you incorporate the fear of the Lord into your daily routine to foster a deeper sense of reverence and humility? [01:21:53]
In what ways can you actively participate in worship beyond singing, such as through acts of service or obedience? [01:24:05]
Identify a spiritual leader in your life. How can you show them honor and support this week? [01:33:25]
How can you practice humility in your interactions with others, especially when receiving honor or recognition? [01:45:14]
Think of someone in your community who may feel undervalued or disrespected. What practical steps can you take to honor them and show them the love of Christ? [01:37:13]

Sermon Clips

1. "Our biggest purpose, our biggest goal in life, is to honor God. And I think we all say that we honor God. Like, if you're a believer, if you're a Christian, like, you know, we're all like, yeah, I honor God. But I think we're actually really bad at it. I don't know about you, but I'm really bad at it. I'm bad at honoring God. Even, like, you know, throughout my daily life, like, how often is He in my mind?" [01:12:59] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "We honor and we serve the King of Kings. And that's this morning like, oh my gosh, like Jesus was lifted high this morning. Still have like talking about I'm like trying to shake the chills. I'm like, whoa. It was so good. We serve the King of Kings. He's not just a little sliver of the pie of your life. He's not just the, yeah, he is the foundation and he is your, the foundation of your worldview. Yeah, he's all those things. But he's not just that thing. He is the King of Kings and he deserves all honor and glory and praise. He deserves it. It's due to him." [01:17:08] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Everything I do is to the glory of God. Everything I do, I give God the honor. Everything. Every day in our lives, there's opportunities and there's choices to honor God. And the thing is, like the choices, it's hardly ever, is it ever an easy choice to honor God in hard situations, right? Anybody like, you're maybe at work and there's like a situation where you're feeling pressure to do something that's not honoring to God. And it's hard to make that decision to honor God. But the opportunities are there to honor Him." [01:18:54] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "We need to be concerned with His glory. And when we're concerned with His glory, honoring Him becomes much easier, right? We're His ambassadors. We represent Him. We represent Him in our workplaces. We represent Him in our families. We honor Him. So we honor God by fearing Him. We did this, this really amazing study, this book by John Bevere, 'The Awe of God.' Does anybody remember that? That was incredible." [01:19:31] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The fear of the Lord is something that actually brings me close to him. The fear of the Lord is something that I know who you are, and I know who you are, and I come humbly and I cling to you. That's the understanding of the fear of the Lord. The beginning of honoring God is fearing him. And you guys are so quiet. Don't approach him nonchalantly. Yes, Jesus is our friend. God is our friend. God is so close. He loves us. He's a good father. He's all those things. But again, He is also a king." [01:21:32] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "We honor God by worshiping him. Again, like that was so good. I saw, like there was, we Tersh and I were in the back of the room. I just had to run out to use the facilities before I went up because I don't want to be like, you know, trying to hurry it up. And actually, I might need to hurry it up. But anyways, we were in the back and I was just watching like people just like, just engaged, just worshiping God, just praising him. And it was absolutely amazing. And that's another way we honor God." [01:24:05] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "We honor God by obeying him. You know what's crazy is when I ask my kids to do chores, you know, a lot of times I have to ask them like 20 times. There's my son right there. Brush your teeth. You feed your lizards. You feed your bird. You do this. And sometimes like, oh shoot, I forgot. It's like, fine, just go do it. Go do it. It's fine. But sometimes I ask, I'm like, did you feed your bird? Yeah, I fed my bird. I'm like, whoa, you fed your bird. That's awesome. Good job. That's great. That's great. And I feel super, super honored when you do that." [01:26:47] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "We honor the Lord by living holy. I'm like, oh man, this is so important. This is so, so important. It's not only for him, but it's for us. Because when we're like, when we are dipping our toes in stuff and walking where we shouldn't walk, we're actually damaging ourselves and our families, right? Where there's no, there's no sin that we're, that we can commit that's not like removing everybody else. It affects everybody." [01:29:02] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "We honor spiritual authority. Now Tertia and I have, we're a non-denominational church, meaning that we have no like denominational oversight. Like, you know, we're not Methodist, we're not Lutheran, we're not any of those things. So we don't report to anybody. But we have chosen to actually submit ourselves to a spiritual authority because we know that we need it. And the thing is, submitting to spiritual authority is not like stroking someone's ego, right? Like I am the authority and you will listen to me. It's not like that. Submitting to spiritual authority is putting yourself in a place to receive." [01:33:02] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "We cannot properly honor one another if we can't honor God and we can't honor authority. See, the basis of this is that it's from the beginning is that every person that you will meet, every human being that you will meet was made in the image of God. Therefore, they are due honor and dignity. Even if they are the worst person in the world, they are due dignity and honor because the fact that you honor the fact that they are made in the image of God." [01:37:13] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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