For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. – Romans 1:21

Usually these are verses that we relate to people who intentionally choose not to recognize or submit to the will of God; those who even with all the evidence that creation provides do not want to admit the existence of the creator. As a result of this attitude, these people are “abandoned” to a series of consequences according to their attitude (Romans 1:22-32).

Recently I was shocked to read this verse in a version that uses the phrase “did not honor” instead of “neither glorified.” I’ve never seen this verse as applicable to me because according to my understanding I have no problem in recognizing who God is, and the place He deserves (glorify Him). But reading the version that reads “did not honor” my eyes were opened to the sad truth that I do not always honor God.

Do not misunderstand me, because I am clearly convinced that I love God, but I do not always honor God with my actions. Not that I’m doing the opposite, but the word “honor” compels me to carefully consider my actions to make sure that through them I am intentionally honoring God. I also have to accept that I am not always thankful for who God is and what He means to me.

I am clear that the context of “Romans 1:18-32” focuses on those who intentionally do not honor God. But after the way this verse has spoken into my life I want to ensure that in no way l fall in the same error by being irresponsible and not making sure to intentionally honor God.

The Bible tells us to “not be conformed to this world” (Romans 12:2). The dominant philosophy of the time we live in places each individual as the center of everything, and morality relative to individual interests. Worse yet, each day more people mock those who believe in the authority of the word of God. We cannot conform to this trend. Ignoring the situation can lead to the risk of our hearts being confused (or “darkened”) and follow the ways of this world (Ephesians 2:2). There is a decision to be made.

I decide to live my life in a way that intentionally honor and is thankful to God.