Today’s devotion comes from 1 Corinthians 16:15-18.
“15 Now I urge you, brethren (you know the household of Stephanas, that they were the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves for ministry to the saints), that you also be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labors. 17 I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have supplied what was lacking on your part. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men.” 1 Corinthians 16:15-18.
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Acknowledge means “to recognize the rights, authority, or status of” and “to express gratitude or obligation for” and “to recognize as genuine or valid“. Click here: Acknowledge – Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary
As one example, Paul stated about “Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need”, “Receive him then in the Lord with all joy, and hold men like him in high regard; because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was deficient in your service to me.” Philippians 2:29-30.
So, how can we “acknowledge such men” who help so much in Christian service to us and others?
We can thank them.
We can encourage them.
We can pray for them.
We can help financially support them.
We can help them in other ways.
We can praise them in front of others.
We can subject ourselves to their authority and leadership.
We can respect them.
We can love them.
There is certainly other things that God will put on our minds to “acknowledge such men”.
“As for the saints who are in the earth, They are the majestic ones in whom is all my delight.” Psalm 16:3
Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions 