Showing more honor
In describing “unhypocrital love” (or sincere love) (Romans 12:9), Paul says, “Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:10)
The command is actually a participial phrase that describes the love mentioned in the previous verse: “Love is unhypocritical (sincere)… esteeming one another more highly with honor.”
How do we show more honor to one another?
Love is always patient,
Love is always kind,
Love is never envious
Or vaunted up with pride.
Nor is she conceited,
And never is she rude,
Never does she think of self
Or ever get annoyed.
She never is resentful,
Is never glad with sin,
But always glad to side with truth,
Whene’er the truth should win.
She bears up under everything,
Believes the best in all,
There is no limit to her hope,
And never will she fall.
Love never fails. (! Cor.13:4-8 ISV)
Well, I looked up the definition of the original text definition of “honor” to find, in summary, “showing reverence and seeing as precious”. With that in mind, truly biblical edification seems to fit best. Seeing the abilities and giftings of others and then deliberately encouragaing them, I’ve found to be so honoring (on both the receiving and giving end).
I love the wording of “outdo one another”. If we all exerted as much energy to outdo one another in showing honor instead of elevating ourselves, how wonderfully encouraged and empowered The Church would be! Only God’s agape love can enable us. He alone is my Source for He has shown me, the least deserving, the best honor of all!
Good stuff.
Aussie John and Joel,
Thanks for the comments!
-Alan
Alan,
I was just thinking the other day how easy it was to dishonor our Lord. We can glorify Him to the utmost and honor Him in our service to Him daily, but it only takes one word or short conversation to tear down our testimony of Him. This one action will spread like wildfire.