Tag: respect

May 7, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Not the Only Way

Opening Verse

“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.”
— Romans 12:3 (KJV)

Introduction

There is only one Savior — Jesus Christ. You are not Him. None of us are. And yet, many people act like their opinions, their methods, or their traditions are the only way to live out faith. That prideful mindset shuts out others, stifles learning, and grieves the Spirit of God.

Devotional Story

A man believed his understanding of scripture was flawless. He avoided anyone who didn’t agree with him. In his small circle, no one challenged his views. One day, a young believer humbly asked a question he couldn’t answer. Embarrassed, he brushed it off and avoided the young man from then on.

But later that week, the man overheard the young believer gently sharing the gospel with someone in tears. The words were simple, the love was genuine, and the Spirit was present. That moment crushed the man’s pride. He realized he had built a bubble of self-importance, shutting out not only people but God’s own work through them.

What This Means

God gives grace to the humble, not to the proud. You are not the standard — Jesus is. When you shut yourself off from others, you may be shutting yourself off from what God is doing through them. True faith isn’t about being right — it’s about being righteous. That means being teachable, respectful, and always ready to learn from others whom God has also gifted and called.

Think About This

Are you willing to learn from others, even those who see things differently? Have you mistaken your personal convictions for divine authority? Are you lifting up Jesus — or just yourself?

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for the pride that makes me think I know it all. Help me to stay humble and teachable. Teach me to respect others and recognize the work You are doing in them. Let me never forget that only You are the way, the truth, and the life. I want to lift You up, not myself. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”
— Philippians 2:3 (KJV)

March 5, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Danger of Dishonoring Parents

Opening Verse

“Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.” – Proverbs 20:20 (KJV)

Introduction

Honoring our parents is not just a social expectation; it is a divine command. Yet, in today’s world, rebellion against authority, including parents, is often encouraged. Many believe they have the right to dishonor or disrespect their parents because of disagreements or past wounds. However, God’s Word warns that dishonoring parents leads to severe consequences, both spiritually and physically.

Devotional Story

There was a young man who grew up feeling bitter towards his parents. He often blamed them for his struggles and hardships. As he became older, his resentment turned into open defiance—he spoke harshly to them, ignored their counsel, and even ridiculed their faith.

One day, in a fit of rage, he yelled at his mother, calling her names and cursing her. That night, as he lay in bed, he felt an unshakable darkness settle over him. He lost his peace, and his once bright future began to crumble. Opportunities slipped away, friendships faded, and he found himself lost in deep loneliness.

Desperate, he sought help from a wise pastor, who pointed him to Proverbs 20:20. The young man was struck with conviction. He fell to his knees and repented before God. He reached out to his parents, asking for forgiveness, and slowly, the darkness in his life began to lift. Joy returned, doors opened, and the favor of God shined upon him once more.

What This Means

Cursing or dishonoring our parents leads to spiritual darkness. It affects not only our relationship with them but also our relationship with God. Parents, whether perfect or flawed, are placed in our lives by God’s design. When we honor them, we honor Him. Dishonor brings destruction, but repentance and restoration bring blessings.

Think About This

  • Have you spoken or acted in ways that dishonor your parents?
  • Do you hold resentment against them that needs to be released?
  • How can you show honor and gratitude to them today?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for my parents, even in their imperfections. Forgive me for any words or actions that have dishonored them. Soften my heart to show them love and respect as You command. Help me to walk in the light of Your blessings by honoring those You have placed in authority over me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Honour thy father and thy mother; that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” – Exodus 20:12 (KJV)

February 1, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Authority and Our Responsibility

Opening Verse

“For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.” – Romans 13:4 (KJV)

Introduction

God has established order in this world, including the authorities that govern us. While no human system is perfect, God’s Word makes it clear that rulers serve a purpose—to reward good and punish evil. Understanding this truth helps us live in obedience, knowing that respecting authority is also part of honoring God.

Devotional Story

In a small town, a man named Paul worked as a traffic officer. He loved his job, not because of the authority it gave him, but because he saw it as a way to keep people safe. One day, a reckless driver sped through a school zone, nearly hitting a child. Paul quickly intervened, pulling the driver over.

The man was furious. “Why are you stopping me? I was only going a little over the limit!” he shouted.

Paul calmly responded, “Sir, the speed limit here is for a reason. A child almost lost their life because of your decision. I don’t enforce these laws for myself—I do it to protect people like that child.”

The driver, still upset, snatched the ticket and drove off. But later that evening, he reflected on what Paul had said. He realized that laws weren’t just about punishment; they were about protection.

Paul understood something deeper—his role wasn’t just a job; it was a calling. Whether people appreciated it or not, he was an agent of order, carrying out a responsibility that aligned with God’s design for authority.

What This Means

Romans 13:4 reminds us that governing authorities are appointed by God to maintain justice. While human leaders can be flawed, the principle remains—order is necessary, and those who do good should have no reason to fear. But those who rebel against authority, especially in ways that bring harm, will face consequences.

As believers, we must respect the structures God has put in place while also praying for those in leadership, that they would govern with wisdom and righteousness.

Think About This

  • How do you view authority? Do you see it as an obstacle or as part of God’s order?
  • Are there areas in your life where you struggle to submit to leadership?
  • Do you pray for those in authority, even when you disagree with them?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the order You have established in this world. Help me to respect authority as an act of obedience to You. Give wisdom to those in leadership, that they may govern with righteousness and justice. Help me to be a person of integrity, submitting where I should and standing for truth when needed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.” – 1 Peter 2:13-14 (KJV)

January 16, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Path of Righteousness

Opening Verse:

Proverbs 21:21 (KJV) – “He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.”

Introduction:

In Proverbs 21:21, we’re invited to embrace a lifestyle focused on doing what’s right and being kind to others. It’s like being told that the best way to live a fulfilling life is by being good and caring towards everyone.

Devotional Insight:

In simpler terms, ‘righteousness’ here means doing what’s right according to God’s standards. It’s about being honest, fair, and just in everything we do. ‘Mercy’ is about being compassionate and kind, showing love and forgiveness just like how God does with us.

The verse encourages us to actively chase after these qualities. It’s like a journey where we keep trying to be better in being fair and kind. The reward for this? A life filled with real meaning, staying true to what’s right, and earning respect not just from people but, more importantly, in God’s eyes.

What This Means:

This verse isn’t just about being religious; it’s about how we act every day. It’s a call to be our best selves – fair, kind, and caring. It affects how we treat our family, friends, and even strangers.

Think About This:

Consider your daily actions. Are you making an effort to be fair and kind? How do these choices shape your life and relationships?

Prayer:

Dear God, help me to always aim for what’s right and to be kind to others. May these values guide me every day and make my life meaningful and respected in Your sight. Amen.

Closing Verse:

Micah 6:8 (KJV) – “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”