We saw in the previous post that God renews our strength and guides us along right paths (Psalm 23:3) which brings honor to His name. So in a sense, His goodness and kindness bring honor to His own name.
This is a concept we can find throughout the Bible. Let's take a good look at Psalm 25:11 where it is written: For the honor of your name, O Lord, forgive my many, many sins.
Think about that, the forgiveness of sins brings honor to God's name. When Jesus took that task upon Himself, He did so to bring honor to His Father's name. When He died on the cross for the forgiveness of the sins of the world, it was an act of obedience.
And He was honored for it. Philippians 2:8-10 says, He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth.
We are forgiven for the honor of His name. When people refuse His forgiveness, they basically dishonor His name. I would say, that is a thought which needs some further contemplation!
Wonderful food for thought and reflection, Marja.
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Thanks for your visit Martha, I appreciate it, as always.
DeleteI have thought this too, that when I refuse to forgive myself, I'm not receiving His love and forgiveness. He offers me the gift; I have a choice to take it or not.
ReplyDeleteRefusing His forgiveness, refusing to forgive ourselves and refusing to forgive others... it all dishonors His good name. Never saw it that way before.
DeleteThanks for your comment Tracy. That is probably the core truth... it is not about us, it is all about Him!
ReplyDelete