Devotion
for Sunday August 18, 2019
Topic:
Don’t Advertise Yourself
Text:
John 4:16 – 26
Some people are fond of telling
others who they are by their words and actions. They will always want people to
acknowledge them by introducing themselves even though the occasion does not
demand or warrant such. This is common attitude of the Pharisees.
Such attitude is opposed to God, no
wonder Jesus always rebuke them (Luke 11:39 – 44). Are you one of those who
would always introduce yourself to people so as to be recognised? Know that
unwarranted self introduction is an act of pride.
Jesus met this woman of Samaria at
Jacob’s Well and as their discussion ensued, the woman made the statement in
John 4:19. She perceived that Jesus is a prophet from His manner and His knowledge
of her of her history.
The word “prophet” here denotes one
who knew her heart and life, and who must therefore have come from God. Every
word that Jesus had uttered excited her to wonder more and more, and when He
lifted the curtain off her life, she was convinced at once of Jesus superhuman
knowledge. Jesus didn’t tell her He is a prophet rather it was through His
word, the woman came to understand.
How do you present yourself to
others? Do you allow people to discern that you are a child of God by your
actions and words or you go about to announce and advertise that you are a
child of God, a prophet, a demon bulldozer and in many other ways? Allow people
to know you by the fruit you bear (see also Matthew 7:16 & 20)
Food
for thought:
“Those that are truly desirous to be owned and accepted by God will likewise
desire not to be taken notice of nor applauded by men.” - Henry
Memory
Verse:
John 4:19
Prayer: Grant me the spirit of
humility, O Lord, that people will know me by the fruit I bear
