#honor — When God Shows Up — Founded on the Bible

Genesis 18:3-5

“My Lord,” he said, “if it pleases you, stop here for a while. Rest in the shade of this tree while water is brought to wash your feet. And since you’ve honored your servant with this visit, let me prepare some food to refresh you before you continue your journey.” “All right,” they said. “Do as you have said.”

“When God Shows Up” is based upon Genesis 18. Part 2, “At Your Service” focuses on verses 3-5. Abraham offered God and His two angels shade, water to wash their feet, and food to refresh themselves. The question we will ask today is, how do we honor God?

With anticipation, Abraham offered shade, water, and food hoping God would accept his invitation to stay a while. God is a gentleman and will not remain where He is not wanted. The imagery here is symbolic of revivals which are special visitations from God. They have happened throughout history and the Church has been praying for another revival for several decades now. Let’s discuss the meaning behind the shade, water for washing, and preparation for food; three very important aspects of what God will watch for when He shows up.

Shade:

Symbolically, shade or shadow represents protection from an enemy. As a host, Abraham would ensure that God and His angels would be kept safe from harm. For example, Psalm 91 speaks of those who trust in the Lord of being hidden or protected under the “shadow” of the Almighty, whose power no foe can withstand.

When God visits His Church, He expects us to protect our hearts by keeping Him first and foremost. When we remove Him from that position, He can no longer cover us with His shade or shadow. Think about it. All day long we are bombarded with news and situations that require our attention. Nothing should replace the love, time, and affection that belongs only to God. We need to remove all obstacles that force Him to step down from being “Number 1”!

Water for Washing:

Abraham stood under the tree (Genesis 18:8) and acted as the men’s personal wait staff. It would be reasonable to assume that it was he who brought the pitcher of water in a basin and washed the men’s feet to refresh themselves.

In Luke 7, Jesus was invited to eat at the home of Simon the Pharisee. A prostitute knelt at Jesus’ feet. In front of everyone, she washed his feet with costly ointment and tears, and wiped them dry with her hair. Simon was livid. But Jesus rebuked him saying that he did not even offer the customary courtesy of a bowl of water to wash his feet when he entered his home. The woman welcomed Jesus with love and adoration and the Pharisee’s welcome was one of mockery and disrespect. Both Abraham and this woman respected and honored God’s presence. When we respect and honor God’s presence, we refresh His soul.

Preparation of Food:

In full hospitality mode, Abraham suggested that his visitors eat some food. Rest assured, Abraham offered the best of the best of the ingredients to present an amazing meal to digest and enjoy. Nothing would be too good for his guests!

We know that the Word of God is often symbolized with food. It is the best of the best wisdom, advice, and inspiration. It contains life giving power. When the Word of God is taught in its purest form without incorrect interpretation, and is meditated and acted upon, people’s hearts and lives are changed forever. We are translated from the Kingdom of Darkness into the Kingdom of Heaven. The Word of God is life itself!

Matthew 4:4

But He (Jesus) answered and said, "It is written, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.""

How do we honor God?

When God visits, He expects to be first place in our lives so He can cover us with His shade and protect us from all harm. He wants us to respect Him and welcome His presence. And, He wants us to feed and meditate on the pure Word of God. These things refresh His soul and He will stay and abide with us as long as we welcome Him, to.

Let’s pray:

Father, by Your grace, You will always be first place in my life. I will respect and welcome Your presence and You will find me feeding on Your pure holy word. In Jesus name, Amen.