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THE HONOR- 03/26/19

By March 26, 2019Daily Devotionals

THE HONOR
March 26, 2019

Prayer:  May I not forget how very much I need You when I am lifted up and when I bring myself down by my thoughts and behavior.

The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but people are tested by their praise. Prov. 27: 21 NIV
John replied, “A man can receive nothing (he can claim nothing at all) unless it has been granted to him from heaven (for there is no other source than the sovereign will of God.) John 3: 27 AMP

The call came on a Saturday. I held my breath. The chairman of the district Teacher of the Year committee was calling to tell me that I had won the district award. Unbelievable! This was an honor that I held in very high esteem, and considered far beyond my abilities to achieve. I knew, better than anyone else, all my failings as a teacher: my frustrations and my low self-image.  I also knew that I loved school, always had, and I loved teachers. When they told me that I was to speak to the entire faculty of my district and represent teachers, it truly honored me.  I wanted to let everyone know how the Lord had truly favored me. I also knew that this award could be my downfall, and I needed to bring to the Cross any pride it brought.

The applause, the tributes, the congratulations, and the compliments, were wonderful.  Some people had tears in their eyes as I spoke. What a memorable occasion for me.  However, I’ll never forget my first “bad” day after the award. The Enemy was ruthless! Who did I think I was, receiving such an award? Surely there were other people much more worthy than I, etc., etc.

It was then I knew. An award tests character. How would I respond? To praise—may God be glorified. To failure—may God be glorified as well!

Copyright Shirley Wilson.  Email [email protected]