Glory vs. Recognition

Galatians 1:5
“to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen.”

Glory is getting recognition for one’s accomplishments. This passage points out that God is to get it. That will be addressed. While glory is too strong a word for people, is recognition ok for people?
God is the one who is to get the glory. God is worthy as the author and sustainer of creation. All of it is brilliant in its design and function. We could zero in on any creature and marvel on it’s wonder and how it fits in with all of nature. He created us, mind, body and soul.
The creation of people was God’s masterpiece. Psalm 139:14 says, “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well.” People were the only created ones that bore the image of God (Genesis 1:27). It’s amazing to see an entire society of independent, self determined people living in harmony. God is great.
While God gets the glory, He seems to have built within us a desire for recognition. Pride of ownership motivates people to beautify their property and belongings. This recognition also drives us to be great business owners or employees. Proverbs 18:16 says, “A man’s gift makes room for him And brings him before great men.”
This Proverbs passage speaks of the way things are to be done; God’s created method. This is what builds confidence in us. The good parent discovers the talents in their children and fosters that. God blesses this recognition of efforts.
God seeks to honor us as we follow Him. Psalm 23 says, “He prepares a table for me in the presence of my enemies.” It’s like an honor banquet for us. There are those in Christianity that have an overemphasis on humility. They would have a difficult time with how the Lord wants to honor us. However, it’s part of how He demonstrates His love toward us.
Lord, You are worthy of glory and praise. Help us to ever give it. Thank You that You seek to honor us. Help us to feed into that part of our nature that drives us to excellence. Thank You that You seek to honor us as we follow You. You are so good to us. Thank You.