Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority. Romans 13:7 (NLT)
We’ve begun a series on honour, and yesterday we discussed how easy it is to lose respect for those we are most familiar with.
This applies not only to families, but among friends and coworkers as well. Often staff members will overlook the time, effort and sacrifice the owner has put in—even when that owner is well respected by others in the industry—because they are too familiar with the boss’s shortcomings.
One of the problems with the human race is how quickly we become overly familiar with those around us. We take people for granted. The problem is that if we don’t honour others, we damage our relationships. This overly familiar attitude also leads to pride. Many avoid giving compliments, especially to those in authority, because they don’t want others to think they’re kissing up. But genuine compliments are not the same as flattery, which is done to manipulate another. We need to give honour where honour is due.
In reality, dishonouring or disrespecting someone shows that you don’t value them. Those in leadership make sacrifices that others may never understand. They may not be perfect, but you can value what they bring to the table. This doesn’t mean you have to agree with everything they say and do, but even a disagreement of opinion can be communicated with respect.
Value the people God has placed around you and the leaders He has put in your life. Hand out compliments and say what you genuinely appreciate about them. As you respect and honour them, you help to empower them to be their best.