Proverbs 49:20 says, “Him whom the Lord has honoured and does not understand it is like a beast that perishes in the fields.” This scripture highlights a profound truth: honour without understanding is meaningless and short-lived. If a person lacks understanding, their wealth, honour, and legacy are no better than a fleeting shadow. But with understanding, their works endure, and their name becomes more valuable than riches.
In today’s world, especially within the church, we often focus on wealth and prosperity as the ultimate symbols of success. Motivational and prosperity preachers, myself included, sometimes give the impression that riches alone bring fulfilment. But this is far from the truth. Fulfilment comes from understanding and wisdom. As Proverbs 24:3-4 reminds us, “By wisdom is a house built; by understanding, it is established; through knowledge, its rooms are filled with rare and precious ornaments.”
Wealth Without Responsibility
Joseph is a remarkable example of someone who understood the responsibility that comes with blessings. Loved by his father and favoured by God, Joseph separated himself from the misbehaviours of his brothers. Even when tempted by Potiphar’s wife, he refused, saying, “How can I do such a wicked thing against my God?” He recognized that his honour and blessings came from God, and to betray God would be to forfeit everything.
Africans, and indeed many people today, often pursue riches without thinking about legacy, responsibility, or their relationship with God. When God honors you, there are certain things you must separate yourself from. Joseph left his garment behind and fled from temptation. This act of consecration—separating oneself unto God for responsibility, functionality, and efficiency—is rarely emphasized in today’s church.
Consecration and Responsibility
We must return to teaching consecration. When God has blessed and honored you, there are things you must avoid, people you must not associate with, and places you should not go. Your conduct, choices, and associations must reflect the honor God has placed upon you. For example:
I avoid situations that might compromise my integrity. Once, I excused myself from a dinner where a governor was present, knowing that such relationships might lead to complications.
I refuse to pursue wealth at the expense of my values. Despite being a preacher, I have never indulged in contracts or run after politicians.
I maintain my dignity in all circumstances. There are places and ceremonies I avoid because they do not align with the honour God has placed on my life.
Lessons from Samson
Samson is a tragic example of dishonoring God’s blessings. Endowed with supernatural strength, he squandered it by associating with the Philistines and pursuing his own desires. His lack of consecration led to his disgraceful downfall. Similarly, pastors and leaders today must flee from any appearance of iniquity. If God has honored you, do not degrade yourself by chasing after money, trivial pursuits, or petty conflicts.
Protecting Honor
When God crowns you with honor, don’t use that crown to weed grass, or you will end up in disgrace. Here are practical ways to uphold the honor God has given you:
Dignify Yourself: Avoid unnecessary associations and maintain boundaries. Even Elisha did not directly communicate with the Shunammite woman who helped him but sent Gehazi instead.
Avoid Foolish Pursuits: Do not let trivial matters overshadow your calling. I once laughed at a story of a pastor who went viral for cursing the thief who stole his chicken instead of preaching Christ. Such incidents diminish the honour of God upon our lives.
Focus on Productivity: Instead of constantly preaching about money, create value. My books and intellectual property have earned me millions, and people pay for my consultations and lectures. This approach upholds the dignity of my calling.
Guard Your Integrity: Be careful about the words you speak, the actions you take, and the company you keep. Even in a WhatsApp group, I rarely comment to avoid unnecessary insults or misunderstandings.
Conclusion
When God honours you, He expects you to reciprocate with responsibility, modesty, and decency. Honour is not about worldly possessions but about walking in the light of Christ. Let your life reflect His glory, and even when you pass away, your legacy will endure.
As we prepare for 2025, I invite you to join my webinar, “Hitting the Ground Running Financially 2025,” in January. It will equip you with practical steps for financial acceleration. Send us a message to register.
Remember, when God introduces you as a lion, don’t behave like a goat. Live a life of honor, responsibility, and consecration. God bless you!
— Dr. Charles Apoki.
