Reverence for the Eternal is the first lesson of wisdom, and humility always precedes honor. Proverbs 15:33 (VOICE)
Sometimes we can forget to show respect for those we love and a little reminder is all we need to start communicating how we feel about them again.
But what happens if you can’t think of anything you respect about a person in your life?
We already talked about the power of focus. It’s important to focus on a person’s positive characteristics and not get caught up in only seeing the negative. But if you’ve tried this and you are still struggling, there’s one more thing you can do.
Of course, I’m not suggesting that you stay in a relationship with someone who is abusive. I’m speaking about relationships that have grown cold—where resentment or indifference has replaced the love and respect that was once there.
Think of what happens when a friend introduces you to another friend or colleague that they respect. Automatically, you give that person a level of respect because you trust your friend’s judgement.
Well, does God love and respect the people in your life you are having trouble respecting? He certainly does! If any one of these had been the only person on the planet, God still would have sent His only Son Jesus to die on the cross for them. If God values people to so great a degree, then you can reach out and give each the level of respect that every person deserves.
You’ll never regret respecting a family member or friend. Sometimes it takes a bit of humility and a lot of generosity, but it’s always worth the effort.