In what ways can we "honor" God in our community and church? Our Foundational Verse—1 Peter 4:11 “If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and power forever and ever. Amen.” What It Means to “Honor” God • Glorifying His name above our own (1 Corinthians 10:31) • Submitting to His Word as absolute truth (Psalm 119:160) • Displaying visible obedience that points people to Him (Matthew 5:16) Practical Ways to Honor God in the Local Church • Speak Scripture-saturated words – Teach, counsel, and encourage straight from the Bible (Colossians 3:16) • Serve with Spirit-given strength – Volunteer where needs exist—children, music, facilities—trusting God to supply energy (1 Peter 4:11) • Elevate corporate worship – Sing wholeheartedly, participate actively, arrive expectantly (Psalm 100:2) • Protect unity – Resolve conflicts quickly; “outdo yourselves in honoring one another” (Romans 12:10) • Practice radical hospitality – Open homes and schedules to believers who need fellowship (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9) • Encourage faithful gathering – Prioritize Sunday services and mid-week meetings (Hebrews 10:24-25) Living Out Honor in the Wider Community • Consistent integrity – Conduct business and daily interactions “without complaining or arguing” (Philippians 2:14-16) • Visible good works – Volunteer in schools, shelters, and civic projects so neighbors “glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16) • Compassion for the vulnerable – “Look after orphans and widows” through mentoring, fostering, and benevolence giving (James 1:27) • Gospel-shaped generosity – Meet material needs “especially to the family of faith,” yet also to all people (Galatians 6:10) • Respect for governing authorities – Obey laws and pray for leaders, showing orderly lives that commend Christ (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Timothy 2:1-2) Guarding Our Motives • Honor flows from gratitude, not self-promotion (Colossians 3:17) • Private devotion fuels public witness—daily prayer and Scripture keep the heart aligned (Psalm 119:11) • The aim is God’s fame, not ours—“so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 4:11) Encouragement for Daily Practice Whatever today holds—conversation, chore, committee meeting—“do it all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Small, faithful acts done in His strength echo eternally and honor Him before a watching world. |
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