Tek SengDr. Tan

DAILY REFLECTION

“A son honors his father, and a slave his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? If I am a master, where is the respect due me?” says the Lord Almighty. “It is you priests who show contempt for my name. “But you ask, ‘How have we shown contempt for your name?’”
Malachi‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬ ‭

In every leadership transition, believers are called to uphold the values of Christ: honoring those who came before, fulfilling commitments with integrity, and preserving the witness of the gospel through respectful and righteous conduct. 

John Gray, once an associate pastor at Lakewood Church in Houston, later became senior pastor of Relentless Church in South Carolina, succeeding Ron and Hope Carpenter of Redemption Church. What began as a hopeful transition sadly turned into public conflict, as allegations of dishonesty and financial misconduct surfaced between both parties.

Behind such disputes lies a deeper spiritual truth: when honor and humility are missing, the enemy gains ground. The Carpenters, as founders, had labored faithfully for years and likely hoped their legacy would be carried forward in a spirit of gratitude and accountability. Yet when pride, misunderstanding, and self-interest creep in, even the work of ministry can become clouded by strife.

The Church flourishes where honor is practiced and love governs relationships. When we esteem one another above ourselves and handle transitions with grace, the name of Christ is magnified.

Malachi 1:6 reminds us that ministry is not sustained by charisma, success, or reputation — but by integrity, unity, and a heart anchored in reverence for God. It challenges spiritual leaders and followers alike to examine whether their actions truly honor God as Father and Lord.

“Where honor and humility abide, His presence dwells richly. “