Genesis 8:20

New International Version (NIV)

Then Noah built an altar to the Lord and, taking some of all the clean animals and clean birds, he sacrificed burnt offerings on it.

For meditation

Do you know how it feels to be disrespected by someone you’ve blessed or loved? Doesn’t it hurt when the person does not appreciate your kindness?  

Can we consider Noah (Genesis 8:18-22) and the unmerciful servant in Jesus’ parable on forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-35)? Do you notice their contrasting responses to God’s grace?

Do you notice Noah’s first act after leaving the ark? He responded to God’s salvation with worship and thanksgiving, despite having limited resources. Isn’t it wonderful how Noah honored God?

Contrast Noah with the unmerciful servant, whose master forgave an enormous debt but then jailed a fellow servant over a small amount. Was this how to thank his master? Do you see why that offended the master?

What about you? How do you respond to God’s kindness in salvation? Do you offer thanks by the way you live, or act against His character? Do you honor Jesus by dedicating your life in obedience to His word? How can you do better this week?

Consider setting aside a moment each day to thank God for His blessings, especially for your salvation, whether through prayer, journaling, or sharing gratitude with someone else. You might also honor God by performing an intentional act of kindness for another person, forgiving an old hurt, or choosing honesty in a difficult situation. Small, daily choices like these express a heart of thanksgiving and honor to God.

I pray your life reflects constant thanksgiving, praise, and honor for God’s salvation until He comes. Remember, God delights in your gratitude and cherishes every thankful word you offer.

May you know how a dishonorable life grieves God (Isa. 1:2-3), and daily offer Him your best, surrendering all desires opposed to His righteousness for Christ’s sake (Rom. 12:1-2).

Shalom

Pray with Me

Father, I thank you for your salvation and the gift of your Holy Spirit for my living. I desire to honor you with a surrendered life and obedience, even when painful. May your Spirit strengthen me when I am weak and failing, and make me stand in Christ Jesus, my Lord and Savior. Amen.

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