23rd October 2022
TOPIC: APPRECIATION.
Matthew 7:12
“Do for others what you would like them to do for you. This is the summary of all that is taught in the law and the prophets”. (NIV)
The one-size-fits-all approach to human management is appreciation. Saying thank you or offering other words of appreciation, along with sincere compliments and other grateful or kind words are the best way to fortify relationship. By appreciating people, you let them know they are needed, people cannot know you appreciate them if you don’t tell them that they are important to you. Complimenting those who deserve it builds lasting relationship and helps people to know they are valued.
As Christians we are to model after Christ, who though know all men, the content of their hearts and how they will even turn in the future, unconditionally love and appreciate them. Christ never for over three years with Judas used actions or words to devalue him, but he knew him before the foundation of the world that he is a betrayal. He appreciated Peter at several occasions though He knew Peter will deny him on the eve of His crucifixion. The model is to appreciate good things in people generally and also those that are even our enemies because white cloth is still white even if it is worn by your enemy. Also people that are seemingly weak as it will serve as a boaster.
In mathematics, they are relationships between the X and Y axis or the vertical and the horizontal. When the vertical relationship with God is correct, the horizontal relationship with mankind will effortlessly be correct. Proverbs 4:23-24 affirms that when it says “Above all else, guard your hearts, for it affects everything you do. Avoid all perverse talk, stay from corrupt speech.” Saying kind, appreciative words to a fellow human being is an overflow of the content of the heart. Jesus said “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” We must be connected to Christ and His words which will fill our hearts and it will affect everything we say. A heart seasoned with grace cannot help but say graceful words devoid of manipulation and hypocrisy. When such a person says ‘thank you, I love you, great one there, am so sorry’ the person will be saying it from a pure and sincere heart and not for any selfish gain or future benefits.
As we develop a greater appreciation and affection for words that heals, bless’ and cheers, we will develop an even greater disdain for words that damages. Appreciation is a double-edged sword, healing the actor and the recipient. When you appreciate people, your life will not depreciate, by that we are letting our light to shine and every one will praise our heavenly father.
May God gracefully help our hearts to be like Him and even show appreciation to Him for all He has done through Jesus Christ.
Keep a date with us next Sunday
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