The Way Of Honour (Part One)

We all  like to receive encouragement and recognition for who we are, if not at least for the achievements we have done. There is something in our DNA that seems to crave these needs. It's probably fair to say that our very worth depends upon these needs being met. The dilemma is not so much the need for affirmation as it is about the source of that affirmation. Our dilemma is trying to get affirmation form other people who are also on a quest to discover who they are. Could this be like "the blind leading the blind"?

If we are made in the image of God then it behoves us to check out the nature of the source itself. One of the characteristics of the Godhead is the amazing honour that they have each for one another. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit honour each other. The plan of the Father was and still is to restore relationship between Himself and humanity. He charged the Son to implement the plan of redemption. The Holy Spirit has the job of broadcasting what Jesus has done for all people. Honour of each other is at the heart of heaven's plan being accomplished on earth.

The Father honoured the Son even before Jesus had done anything. When Jesus arose from his water baptism, a voice from heaven declared, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." (Mt.3:17) Honour was broadcast from the Father to the Son. The Son said of His Father when He was in the garden of Gethsemane, "but not My will be done but thy will be done" (Mt.26:39). The Son honoured His Father's plan to go all the way to Calvary. Today the Holy Spirit honours the finished work of the Son as "He will testify of Me" (John 15:26) The Holy Spirit honours Jesus and always seeks to build people up in Christ.

This is the source at work. The way of honour is the way ahead. Honour always accords worth and esteem. How much are you worth? Who values you? Where does your esteem come from? The way that the Godhead honour each other is also the way of honour for us.


Adapted from the message by Ross Smith called "The Way Of Honour" from 09/11/14. The full message can be accessed by podcast from www.thevine.org.au