Growing My Faith

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Growing My Faith Part 28 - A Bouquet for God

by Gail Rodgers
Do you ever wonder how to accept compliments when you have simply done what God asked you to and know He empowered you to do it?

Jesus said that we cannot bear fruit unless we are connected to Him. Our own best efforts, without the power of the Holy Spirit, will have no effect for eternity.
He told us that having fruit in our lives shows that we are Jesus’ followers. When we see results for God’s kingdom… God gets the credit. Jesus said:

“This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” John 15:7

So what do you do when people want to give you the credit and you feel uncomfortable with it?
A wise lady once told me to graciously say “thank you” and receive each compliment as you would accept a beautiful rose. Honor the giver with heartfelt gratitude. Enjoy each blossom that is handed to you and in your heart praise God for the beauty His fruit has brought to your own life. Then, at the end of each day, offer all the flowers up to God as a bouquet of praise and thankfulness to Him.
Giving everything back to God, whether it is your compliments, your accomplishments, your riches or your influence keeps them from taking root in your own heart. It keeps you mindful of God’s work through the power of His Holy Spirit and safeguards you from having unwanted seeds of pride take root.
Don’t rob God by casting aside the kind words of those whose lives are touched by what God is doing through you. Gather the lovely flowers and carry them to your Heavenly Father as your praise offering.
What a lovely picture… bouquets for God.
prayer & reflection

Father God,
Thank you for Your empowering Holy Spirit who works through me to touch lives around me. Please help me to graciously accept the flowers of gratitude that come my way and to gather them together as a bouquet for You, the Giver of all good gifts. Keep my heart free of self pride that stifles Your Spirit and use me to bear much fruit for Your kingdom.
With thanksgiving I pray in Jesus’ strong name, amen.