“Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?  The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our Fathers, glorified His servant Jesus. And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know.” – Acts 3:12, 13, 16

William Duma grew up in the rural hilly area of Umkomaas outside of Durban. He was ordained as a Baptist pastor in 1939 and served as a pastor until his death in 1977.  His lifestyle was simple, but his life influenced many and his ministry touched the lives of thousands. He was friends with people from all walks of life, from kings to domestic workers. People travelled from far to his humble dwelling to seek his advice and the touch of God’s healing grace through him. Duma was a man of prayer. He saturated himself in prayer and intercession was the secret to his healing ministry. The many hours spend in the presence of God showed on his face and were evident in the power of his preaching and healing.  He lived to bring glory to God and said:” What is my secret? Jesus Christ is my Lord and Master.”

The story of Pastor Duma reminded me of the healing that took place through the life and ministry of Peter. The apostles, Peter and John was walking to the temple at the hour of prayer when they encountered a man that was lame from his birth (Acts 3: 1-10). They healed the man which created quite a stir among the people. The crowd’s comments made Peter realize that the crowd believed that his power had healed the man. He was quick to deny it. He was aware of the dangers that lurked in this subtle temptation, so he turned their attention to God. If Peter had fallen for the subtle temptation, it would have ended his ministry.  To accept and claim the glory that belongs to Jesus and God is deadly.

Could this be the reason why God is not using so many people or Churches today? Is it because He knows that we would be quick to accept honor, praise and glory for ourselves for what only God can do? We read in Isaiah 42:8: “I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols.” (Read also Proverbs 16:18-19; 29:23).

We as God’s children should be very careful not to take any of God’s glory for ourselves. Think back over the past few days, weeks, months or years and ask God to forgive you if you enjoyed any praise that was due to go to God. Let us be like signposts that direct the attention of everyone who meets us, to the Lord.