“On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.” Acts 14:27.
Paul and Barnabas arrived at their home church in Antioch and told the many stories of God’s amazing movements in the lives of the people they worked with in the towns and cities visited on their trip. The door of faith in Jesus had been opened to many people and especially to the Gentiles, who were turning to Jesus in large numbers. As they were in the habit of doing, Paul and Barnabas were careful not to take the credit for themselves. They gave total glory to God for the amazing work He did through them.
I must admit that if I were part of Paul’s party, I would have liked receiving some recognition for what took place. Along with God (of course!), I wouldn’t mind people taking notice of me. I am not proud of that fact, but the truth is, it is there. Paul and Barnabas showed no such inclination. They gave total credit to God for all the lives touched and changed for Jesus’ sake and purposes. I am glad that I am aware of my bad attitude, for it aids me in purposely backing away from personal recognition and pointing to God in order to praise and thank Him for His work among us. I am learning to look to God for any recognition that I might need to receive. The important thing is that God “opened the door of faith” to those around Paul and Barnabas, and to us.
Questions to consider: How important is it for you to receive recognition? Who do you need to receive recognition from? How has God worked through you in order for His purposes to advance?
Prayer: Father, help me to be open to be used by You to advance Your kingdom. Help me to look solely, to You, and not others, for any recognition that I might need. Amen.
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