Worship Him
But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I myself am also a man” ~ Acts 10:26
I’ve never had someone run up to me and try to bow down in worship and honestly, I’m thankful for that. It would be extremely awkward and uncomfortable! Maybe it’s happened to you? Probably not. Most of us would be shocked if it ever did. That kind of attention isn’t common, but some people might enjoy being treated as if they were more than human.
On the flip side, I’ve heard people completely dismiss any recognition they receive. Someone compliments their talent, and they quickly respond, “Oh, that was all God.” I’ve even heard a couple say they had “nothing to do” with the beautiful baby they were holding after having just given birth! Oh, they had something to do with it. If they hadn’t come together as husband and wife, there would be no baby at all. The truth is, God absolutely works with us, not just in miraculous moments but in everyday things. He partners with us to accomplish His will.
Whether we’re leading, serving, creating, or nurturing, God’s grace empowers us, but we still have a part to play. It’s okay to say “thank you” when someone compliments your work. You can also say, “I had help”, acknowledging God and the people who supported you. That’s not pride, it’s partnership. The problem only comes when we start thinking we did everything by ourselves and we begin to crave recognition for our own self worth.
In today’s passage, Cornelius bows before Peter in reverence. Peter immediately stops him and says, “Stand up; I’m just a man too.” This wasn’t the only time something like this happened in the New Testament. The apostles, though empowered by God and used mightily, were always quick to deflect worship and honor back to God. Maybe the culture of the Roman Empire encouraged that kind of reverence toward powerful people, but the early church leaders knew better: only God deserves worship.
Yet, they never pretended they had no role to play. Peter didn’t say, “I’m nothing.” He said, “I’m also a man” meaning, “Yes, I’m working with God, but I’m not above you.” That balance is powerful. When you acknowledge both God’s part and your own, you point others toward the same partnership with Him. You show them that they, too, can work with Him to accomplish His great purpose.
Here is how you can begin to live this principle out in your life:
- Stay humble: When people acknowledge your efforts, accept it graciously, but remember who gave you the strength, ideas, or opportunity.
- Invite God into your daily assignments: Whether it’s a job, a family task, a ministry, or even a conversation, ask for His guidance and grace to do it well.
- Recognize your team: Whether it’s your spouse, coworkers, church family, or friends, honor those who work with you. God often works through community.
Today I want to encourage you to remember that God is working through you, not just around you. He gives you what you need and invites you to walk with Him daily to accomplish good things. Stay humble, stay available, and give Him the glory while stepping boldly into your role. You are part of His plan, and He delights in partnering with you.
Today’s scripture reading: Acts 10:24-33
24 They arrived in Caesarea the following day. Cornelius was waiting for them and had called together his relatives and close friends.
25 As Peter entered his home, Cornelius fell at his feet and worshiped him.
26 But Peter pulled him up and said, “Stand up! I’m a human being just like you!”
27So they talked together and went inside, where many others were assembled.
28 Peter told them, “You know it is against our laws for a Jewish man to enter a Gentile home like this or to associate with you. But God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean.
29 So I came without objection as soon as I was sent for. Now tell me why you sent for me.”
30 Cornelius replied, “Four days ago I was praying in my house about this same time, three o’clock in the afternoon. Suddenly, a man in dazzling clothes was standing in front of me.
31 He told me, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your gifts to the poor have been noticed by God!
32 Now send messengers to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. He is staying in the home of Simon, a tanner who lives near the seashore.’
33 So I sent for you at once, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here, waiting before God to hear the message the Lord has given you.”
Journal:
- Think of a time when you received praise or recognition.
- How did you respond?
- Write down how you could use those moments in the future to both give God glory and acknowledge the part He’s asked you to play.
What’s one way you can invite God into your current work today?
The Daily Dose 