And this passage in Revelation puts a clear exclamation point on it.
Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say: “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” (Revelation 4:9-11)
2. Give More Honor Than You Seek or Expect
If you feel honored, it’s always good if it catches you a bit by surprise. If you are looking for honor, it will never be enough.
A healthy culture of honor extends honor up, down, and side to side.
Honor that only goes up is not the intended expression. Jesus didn’t model it that way and would be the only one who is worthy of it in that manner.
Honor is not only about the person being honored it is also about the person who chooses to honor. Some people chose to dishonor Jesus (even though He was worthy of honor). Honor is always a choice. It says something about the person choosing honor. Jesus didn’t demand honor, nor did he honor others because they demanded it of him.
When honor travels upward it should be natural and authentic not expected or insisted upon by organizational hierarchy. When the latter of the two occurs, it’s never enough.
When honor is natural and authentic it brings us joy to give it, and everyone benefits because a generous spirit is released into the culture.
3. Comparison, Envy and Pride Are the Chief Enemies of Giving Honor.
Ego often gets in the way of honoring others.
For example, if I were to be offended by my seat at the table, the problem is in me. I should be happy simply to be at the table. This kind of pride distracts me from the purpose and function of the group at the table and any opportunity to honor others. I’m more concerned about how others see me than my contribution to the greater good.
Comparison is a stealth enemy of honoring others.
If we allow thoughts like “Why did they get that recognition or reward when I did just as much work” sneak in to our minds and hearts, there is no room left to honor others.
