And He could do no miracle there except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He wondered at their unbelief. And He was going around the villages teaching.
Mark 6:5-6
Honor and faith must be in the atmosphere for God to perform a miracle. That’s why Jesus so often asked prior to doing a miracle, “Do you believe I can do this,” or “What do you want Me to do for you?” He was confirming honor and belief were present while building expectation with the audience surrounding him. If faith wasn’t present, He would change his surroundings. While visiting His hometown, Jesus performed miracles that people saw with their own eyes, yet their unbelief and familiarity with Him eventually neutralized the power of God. Unbelief and dishonor are powerful forces that can cancel out the power of God to perform a miracle.
Go where you are celebrated, not tolerated. Whether you are a salesperson calling on a customer, an employee at a corporation, leading, or serving in the nonprofit or public sector, it’s important to behave in such a way so that you practice the art of honoring. Leaders can create an atmosphere of honor by:
- Celebrating the contributions, talents, or gifts of people by acknowledging the greatness in them. Doing this creates empowerment and appreciation in the atmosphere.
- Contributing to others by serving their needs, asking for their input, and helping them to overcome weaknesses.
- Communicating in words and actions that make deposits into the relationship bank account.
- Caring and praying God’s best for others, especially those who do not treat you well.
As you practice these godly qualities, you are creating an atmosphere around you where God can work miracles in and through you. If practicing the “Art of Honor” doesn’t improve your environment, it is possible God is guiding you to leave one place for another, exit one relationship in exchange for another, or be moving you to a place or people group who will honor and celebrate your contribution. Even Jesus knew there were places He didn’t belong. In some places, He sensed it was time to go; in others, He was asked to leave. Not everyone will celebrate and honor you. If you encounter this situation, get over it, shake the dust off your feet, and advance to where God is leading you. The place of your assignment has changed.
REFLECT TO CONNECT
- Who honors your contribution at work, in your peer group, in your community?
- Whom can you show more honor and respect to in relationships?
- What is God showing you about how to give respect and honor to those around you?
The atmosphere of honor can be created, and it makes way for miracles.
