What can we learn from Manoah's desire to honor God's messenger? Setting the Stage “Then Manoah said to the Angel of the LORD, ‘What is Your name, so that when Your words come to pass we may honor You?’” (Judges 13:17) What Stands Out in Manoah’s Request • He assumes the promise will be fulfilled: “when Your words come to pass.” • He wants a name in order to give credit where it is due. • His desire is not casual curiosity; it is worship-minded gratitude. Reverence for God’s Word • Manoah equates the messenger’s word with God’s word; to honor the messenger is to honor the Sender (cf. John 13:20). • Treating divine revelation as certain reflects faith (Hebrews 11:1). • Obedience is prepared before the miracle arrives, mirroring Luke 1:38 where Mary says, “May it be to me according to your word.” Honoring God’s Messengers Today • Respect spiritual leaders who faithfully handle Scripture. — “Respect those who labor among you… esteem them very highly in love” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Support missionaries and teachers who carry the gospel. — “Receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men” (Philippians 2:29). • Show hospitality; we may be “entertaining angels unaware” (Hebrews 13:2). Guarding Against Misplaced Worship • When Manoah later offers a sacrifice, the Angel of the LORD directs the offering to God alone (Judges 13:16). • Revelation 19:10 echoes this balance: “Worship God!” even while honoring His servant. • True honor never elevates a messenger above the message. Gratitude Fuels Obedience • Manoah’s urge to honor flows from thankfulness; gratitude readies the heart for obedience (Colossians 3:17). • Thankfulness turns fulfilled promises into testimonies, strengthening others’ faith (Psalm 40:3). Takeaways for Daily Life • Receive God’s promises with certainty, speaking of them in the future-perfect tense: “when” not “if.” • Identify and thank those who bring God’s word into your life—pastors, parents, mentors. • Honor God foremost, yet never neglect to appreciate His servants. • Keep gratitude and worship tethered to obedience; promises realized should deepen commitment, not end it. |
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