How should we respond when others recognize God's work in our lives? Recognizing the Moment “God is with you in everything you do.” (Genesis 21:22) Abimelech and his commander didn’t worship the God of Abraham, yet they could not deny His unmistakable hand on Abraham’s life. When people around us observe the same evidence of divine favor, Scripture shows several fitting responses. Responding With Humble Gratitude • Deflect praise upward. “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory.” (Psalm 115:1) • Speak plainly of God’s goodness rather than our own efforts. “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” (James 1:17) Affirming Their Observation • Acknowledge what they see: “Yes, God has been faithful to me.” • Let your agreement become a silent invitation for them to seek Him. “Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for my soul.” (Psalm 66:16) Maintaining a Consistent Witness • Integrity matters more once God’s favor is public. “Live such good lives among the pagans that… they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” (1 Peter 2:12) • Jesus linked visible works with heavenly praise: “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) Pursuing Peace and Covenant Faithfulness Abimelech wanted a treaty because he trusted Abraham’s God-backed word (Genesis 21:23–32). • Keep commitments; your reliability reflects God’s. • Aim for peaceful relationships: “If it is possible… live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) Demonstrating Generosity Abraham offered livestock to seal the agreement (Genesis 21:27). Generosity confirms that God, not possessions, rules us. • “Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:8) • “God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) Pointing Others to God’s Promises • Share why God’s presence is available: the finished work of Christ. • “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you.” (1 Peter 3:15) Continuing in Faithful Obedience • Recognition is not a finish line. Abraham stayed in the land, planted a tamarisk tree, and “called upon the name of the LORD, the Eternal God.” (Genesis 21:33) • Keep walking so future praise still points heavenward: “We walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) In short, when others notice God’s work, receive the compliment as a platform to glorify Him, deepen integrity, practice generosity, pursue peace, and keep following faithfully. |
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