Text: Acts 12:21-23
Memory text:
“I am the Lord, that is My name; And My glory I will not give to another, Nor My praise to carved images.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭42‬:‭8‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Plagiarism is a word that is often used in the academic setting. It is the practice of taking credit for someone else’s ideas, words, or knowledge. The plagiarist doesn’t acknowledge the original source but presents them as his own. The word “plagiarism” comes from the Latin word for “kidnapper” and is considered a form of theft.
Accepting or demanding praise due to someone else’s efforts is generally regarded as dishonest and dishonourable. In the publishing or music industry, it is regarded as a copyright violation that is punishable under the law. How much more punishment will be due to a mortal being who attempts to take credit for God’s work! It is the height of arrogance and pride! That was what changed the archangel Lucifer to satan! He wanted to compete with God in His glory. He wanted worship, as if he were the Creator, even though he was only a created being who was just gifted (Isa 14:14).
Who can claim to deserve any glory? Think about these. Who made you? Who created all things? Who is your keeper, sustainer, provide, or healer? Who gives you wisdom? What aspect of your life can you exclude God? (Act 17:28). God will not allow humans to take credit for what He does, as if it were our own skill, wisdom, and power that deserve the praise.
““I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not give my glory to anyone else, nor share my praise with carved idols.”
(‭‭Isa‬ ‭42‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬). All glory, honour, praise, splendor and majesty belong to God alone. He will not allow His glory to be taken by anyone or His works to be credited to a false god.
God is jealous for His glory and He defends it. According to our text, when King Herod made the mistake of attempting to take God’s glory, God reacted instantly and “….an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died”. Likewise, when King Nebuchadnezzar attributed the greatness of Babylon to his wisdom and power, God immediately withdrew his sanity and he was driven from among men to eat grass like an animal! (Dan 4:28-33).
Friends, don’t learn in a hard way. Those who take God’s glory are thieves and kidnappers! He still punishes violators today. Be conscious to attribute all honour and praise to Him, in your heart, words and actions. To Him alone be glory!

Prayer points
1. Father, please, purge my heart from arrogance and deliver me from the temptation to share Your glory, in Jesus’ name.
2. Father, help me to be conscious of giving You glory and praise, in all things, for all things and at all times, in Jesus’ name.

Today’s declarations
1. I will not take the credit that belongs to God and for His works in my life.
2. As God is using me or as I am prospering in my endeavours, I am conscious to return all glory to Him, lest I lose His favour and invite His judgment.

Contact: pastor@thf.org.ng