July 1, 2010 - Acts 13:48

“When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.” Acts 13:48.
Having been rejected by his own people, the Jews, Paul turned to proclaim the good news about Jesus to the Gentiles, who were grateful for Paul’s efforts. At first reading, I thought that it stated that they were “glad and (were) honored by Paul’s proclamation, but I was wrong. It clearly states that the Gentiles “honored the word of the Lord.” There was something in their actions that demonstrated their sense of honor for the word that Paul brought them.
There are times when I sit back, in my smugness, and make judgments on the word that comes forth in a sermon or a message delivered. Instead of submitting myself under God’s word, I act as though I am superior to it by judging and criticizing it. It is vital for me to intentionally ask for God’s help in hearing the Holy Spirit speak to me through whatever vessel He chooses to use. And it is important that I intentionally stop my criticism of the word being proclaimed. This doesn’t mean that I accept any word spoken. It means that I submit myself to the working of the Holy Spirit through the proclamation of His word, and thereby, honor the word of the Lord.
Questions to consider: How do you honor the word of the Lord? Are there tangible ways that you demonstrate your honor of God’s word in your life? What does that look like?
Prayer: Father, I confess my judgmental attitude at the proclamation of Your word. Please help me to intentionally submit myself to Your word, and in doing so, honor You and Your word. Amen.