There are a series of television commercials currently being aired; the lead character is a man who has saved so much money on his insurance, that he - supposedly - feels compelled to pass along the his 'earnings' to others. Of course, the beneficiaries of his generosity are surprised and some are thankful! He, however, is quick to point out that he is not the one they should focus on for what they (including himself) have been blessed with, as he says, "Don't thank me, I'm just the messenger."
I've been pondering that mindset for quite awhile now, as I, too, have often heard words of gratitude - of course, not for giving my money away - for saying something that someone else benefited from, but knowing that true wisdom and knowledge are gifts from God. Unlike my little advertising example, I usually take the credit for what I've spoken, and lately I've been increasingly uncomfortable about it.
I want everyone to know the same thing James, Jesus' brother, knew; that , "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father
of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)". If what I say is good and perfect, then the glory for such insight should be given to God, and I should just be known as His messenger. All glory - thanks and honor - should be given to the One who originates the blessing.
If what I say is less than perfect, then I believe I should receive whatever reward/punishment is due for bestowing those fake jewels on someone else.
I know - just like the reactions on those commercials - it's sometimes difficult to receive what you're being given, especially when you're not sure what you should expect to accept. I suppose, then, it is in everyone's best interest to know every message for what it is: good and perfect, or not-so-good and less-than-perfect, then we could treat the messenger accordingly.
Well said. I know that I am not the best student, so I am thankful for a good teacher. That teacher, when humbled and obeying God, is valuable to me because they make me think. We are all given gifts, as we have discussed before, and yours are definitely teaching and prophecy. It IS my responsibility, however, to balance what you (or any other) teach with what I, myself, study. Take what you are taught, but question and get counsel from God and His Word. That is the only way to know if it is Truth or fiction.
ReplyDeleteIt is only fitting to give credit where credit is due. Many of us would do well to remember that!! All glory, honor, power is His, Amen!