The Father's Menu

The Father's Menu

Apostle Dr. Richard Udoh

Thursday, July 25, 2024

DON’T KICK AGAINST THE PRICKS

It is crucial that we do not resist the work of God, as doing so brings dishonor and prevents mighty works from being accomplished. Jesus said, "It is hard for you to kick against the pricks," a phrase rooted in a Greek proverb and familiar to Jews and those in agriculture. Farmers would prick animals to steer them in the right direction. Sometimes, the animal would rebel by kicking against the prick, driving it deeper into its flesh and causing more pain. Similarly, the more an ox rebelled, the more it suffered. Jesus used this metaphor to tell Saul (later Paul) that resisting His work only brought more suffering. In the same way, when we resist God's direction and purpose, we bring unnecessary suffering upon ourselves. Therefore, it is vital to align ourselves with His work and follow His guidance willingly.

Mark 6:1-5 “And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.” It is recorded only once in Scripture that Jesus could do no mighty work, and when we examine the root cause, we identify dishonor. Similarly, when we fail to honor the pastors and spiritual leaders God has set over our lives, no mighty work can be accomplished in our midst. Honor is a vital element in the Kingdom of God, and without it, the power of God is hindered. Therefore, let us give due honor to those God has placed in spiritual authority, so that we may witness mighty works and the full manifestation of God's power among us.

1 Timothy 5:17 states, "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine." As a church, we must honor those who have labored among us with double honor, recognizing the excellence of their work. For instance, our Apostle labors tirelessly over us in word and doctrine. We must cultivate the habit of honoring him even more than the guest ministers who visit us. He should be the most special person to us because he dedicates himself to prayer, teaching, and doctrinal guidance for our benefit. Many of us enjoy the spiritual platform and growth we have today because of his relentless labor. Therefore, we must honor him and all those whom God has set over us, acknowledging their significant contributions to our spiritual well-being.

Confession:

I declare that I will honor the elders who rule well, especially those who labor in the Word and doctrine. I commit to showing them double honor through respect, support, and appreciation. I recognize the importance of their work in teaching and preaching Your truth, and I am grateful for their dedication to leading and nurturing the body of Christ. I will uphold them in prayer, encourage them in their ministry, and support them in every way possible. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Further Reading:

Hebrews 13:17 "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you."

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 "And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves."

Read through the bible in 1 year: 2 Chronicles 14:1-16:14 Romans 9:1-24 Psalm 19:1-14 Proverbs 20:1

Read through the bible in 2 years: 2 Kgs 3-4 & Ps 20