By Andrew Williams
“But when Barnabas and Paul heard what was happening, they tore their clothing in dismay and ran out among the crowds, shouting…” – Acts 14:14 (NLT)
Good morning fellow disciples.
Acts 14:14 captures a dramatic moment in Lystra. After a miraculous healing, the pagan crowd, believing Barnabas and Paul to be gods, prepared to offer sacrifices to them. The text vividly describes their reaction: they “tore their clothing in dismay and ran out among the crowds, shouting.” Tearing clothes was a traditional sign of extreme distress, horror, or grief, often done in response to blasphemy. Their action wasn’t just a mild protest; it was a visceral, public demonstration of their horror at the thought of receiving worship due to God alone. This passage underscores their radical humility and their absolute commitment to ensuring that all glory and worship went to the true God, not themselves.
As a disciple, you may occasionally receive praise, recognition, or even admiration for what God does through you. Barnabas’ example stands as a powerful reminder to deflect any form of worship or undue honor directed at yourself. True power and effectiveness in ministry come from God, and it is essential to consistently point others to Him. You are empowered to maintain fierce humility, recognizing that you are merely a vessel, a servant, and that all glory belongs to God alone.
This week, become acutely aware of moments when praise, recognition, or opportunities for self-exaltation come your way. Consciously resist the temptation to take credit or bask in the spotlight. Instead, actively redirect your focus from yourself to God, giving Him explicit credit and glory. Make it a habit to immediately acknowledge that any good accomplished is only through His grace and power.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are the source of all good things, all power, and all glory. Forgive me for the times I have subtly or overtly sought praise for myself. Fill me with the same fierce humility that Barnabas demonstrated. Help me to always remember that I am Your servant, a vessel for Your work. Empower me to deflect any undue honor directed at me and to consistently redirect the focus to You, where all worship belongs. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
