Photo Credit to Natalie Seth (@ escapingyouth)
Act 12:22-23 NLT
The people gave him a great ovation, shouting, “It’s the voice of a god, not of a man!” Instantly, an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people’s worship instead of giving the glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died.
This is brutal, yet so truthful. There is only one King, one God in heaven, that deserves all the glory and power (Rev 7:12). I believe that the Holy Spirit is going to move quickly this year and the remnant of God is going to experience an overflow of blessings like never before.
The danger of being elevated is that some people forget who the Source is of goodness (Ps 119: 65-72 MSG), the One who opened up these miraculous doors (Rev 3:8). God will never share His glory, so make sure that you remain humble in your elevated position. People always praise greatness and achievements, but it is not your greatness, it is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies who made you great and He alone is worthy to be praised when He releases His blessings and favor upon your life.
John also made a mistake when he fell before the feet of God’s angel to worship him, and this is how the angel responded;
And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he added, “These are true words that come from God.” Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said, “No, don’t worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers and sisters who testify about their faith in Jesus. Worship only God. For the essence of prophecy is to give a clear witness for Jesus (Rev 19:9-10 NLT)
Here is the difference, Herod accepted people’s worship and then faced the dire consequences of dying a brutal death. On the other hand, the angel, rejected John’s worship and gave God all the glory.
Guard your heart daily against pride and any form of seeking self-glorification. Let God’s goodness flow over to others and live responsibly before God by helping people to understand that Jesus alone deserves all the honor and glory for the talents and skills that you have received from Him. You are only a vessel and witness for Jesus.