Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV
Have you ever felt “acknowledged”? Did someone notice and honor you for an accomplishment? As I pondered this word this week, I thought about how not only are we admonished in scripture to “acknowledge” the Lord for His position and authority in our life, but also because it brings him pleasure!
A basic definition of the word acknowledge is simply to admit the truth or existence of something or someone. I think, deep down, even the most shy introvert needs/likes to be acknowledged! We all do. There is an innate aspect of giving a emotional gift when we acknowledge someone for who or for what they do.
But in order for this “acknowledgement” to be a true acknowledgement—it must be done with genuine sincerity. To truly acknowledge the Lord, we must honor his position as Lord of our life. When we do, we position ourselves to receive from him direction, wisdom, and insight. We admit we don’t have all the answers and we will trust his answers for the direction in our life. It is important that we stop what we are doing, thinking, or planning and seek him for his plan for the situation, being willing to change what we are doing, thinking or planning. Not always easy, as our pride can get in our way. True acknowledgement puts us in a humble position. The good news is the promise found in this scripture—he will direct our paths, is dependable and re-assuring. Sometimes those paths lead through difficult terrain, but if we keep following it, we find ourselves in green pastures.
One way we can acknowledge God and his ways is to honor those he honors. In the United States, it is Pastor Appreciation month. As we take time to acknowledge our spiritual leaders for their service, we are acknowledging God’s gift to us.
1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.
Hebrews 13:7 Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.
Hebrews 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
We can acknowledge and honor those leaders over us by praying for them, thanking them and, as the Lord leads, do a little extra! I want to encourage you to keep a “short” list with your leaders, walk in love, forgiveness and communicate. I will say it again, pray for them and love them. Walk in humility as God’s family, seek to build his kingdom. God loves his church and so should we. It is part of acknowledging his plan and his purpose.
Father, please teach us to take the time to acknowledge you—in all we do. To stop and allow your wisdom to lead and direct our paths. We know you love us and when we acknowledge you, we love you back. Help us love our leaders after knowledge as well. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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