Today’s reading: Acts 12:20-25; 1 Samuel 16:7; Psalm 24:3-5; Proverbs 16:5
If you looked up the word “narcissistic” in the dictionary, Herod could be there as an example because he was obviously consumed fascinated with himself. The picture we see of Herod in Acts 12 is one of full-blown pride, an attitude and condition that is detestable to God. Dressed extravagantly Herod stands before the people and basks in their proclaiming of him to be a “god.” But Herod’s reveling is short lived. He is immediately struck down by an angel of the Lord because he failed to give God the glory (vs. 23). What a powerful reminder that God is God and His desire is for us to love, serve and glorify Him.
Herod’s prideful thoughts and actions brought to mind a number of other Bible passages, one being 1 Samuel 16 where Samuel, following God’s direction, is looking to anoint the next king of Israel. Samuel is swayed by the outward appearance of the men he encounters. But God reminds Samuel of what is important to Him. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.'”
How often do you think about the fact that God is looking at and knows the spiritual condition of your heart? How would you describe your “heart condition” at this moment? What’s one example of you giving God glory in the past week? Tami
Source: Tami’s Blog
