Worthy of Respect
I will praise you because I have been remarkable and wonderously made. Your works are wondrous, and I know this very well.
Psalm 139:14 (CSB)
People desire respect. Respect occurs when a person values another person, shows consideration for others' perspectives, and holds someone as valuable. All of humanity is worthy of respect because of their inherent nature. This truth does not mean that harmony and agreement always exist, but it does indicate that respect flows from how God creates each individual and a proper understanding of that.
LOVING THEM LIKE JESUS
When believers show proper respect, they love others as Jesus loves. Jesus loves unconditionally and not based on what one deserves. The ability to love others like Jesus often means looking past their actions and loving them as God’s creation. When love is extended to others, the desire is for them to see the love of God through this activity. Loving others like Jesus is part of fulfilling God’s calling in one’s life because it demonstrates faithfulness and obedience.
EXTENDING COMPASSION TO THEM IN LOVE
Love lived out is observed through compassion. Compassion is when one transcends the feelings and words of love, putting it into action. The clearest example of this is found in the parable of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan had every right to ignore the man left for dead. Yet, out of compassion, he recognized the man's inherent worth and value, choosing not to merely express love but to extend compassion. When compassion manifests, love becomes apparent, and people are affected.
RESPECT IN AGREEMENT AND DISAGREEMENT
Proper love and compassion lead to demonstrating respect in both agreement and disagreement. In agreement, respect comes easily because harmony is simple to establish and love is straightforward to extend. In disagreement, respect is truly revealed. When one can listen while still extending compassion and love out of respect, even in disagreement, it demonstrates the love of Christ and true respect. This mark of respect must separate the child of God from the rest of the world.
QUESTIONS
Why is it difficult to show respect when you disagree with someone?
What steps could you take to develop a great ability to extend love and compassion to others, especially those who you disagree with?
