Is There Value In Everyone?

That is debatable, but I ask because something happened to me recently that probably happens often to all of us.  I was sharing something from my heart with a friend…..someone who holds an office in the church.  It seemed he patiently listened but I felt he put no value in what I was saying.  

As I walked away thinking I was being 'critical,' the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart.  "You can respect someone without honoring them."  I started thinking of that simple thought and it became clear.  The friend listened but put little or no value on what I was saying.

At times we are nice to people but we do not honor them…..in other words we do think they have any value or are worth giving them much time or thought..  We might even respect them because of age (as in my case) or relationship with other friends or family members. 

The Lord was telling me that everyone has value, if we look for it.  We were all created in His image, and whether we are a bank president, a house wife, a teacher, politician, garbage collector we have something of value.  A few years ago I had the privilege of praying for homeless people.  I would go home at night astounded at the faith some had, at the 'true grit' they used day after day, and how much they had to offer had not life turned against them.

I think the point God is making with me is to withhold judgment and offer whatever I can to whomever crosses my path, if it is just a smile and hello from the heart.  And, to listen to what they say, it might have great value. 

Years ago I was in Mexico at a Doctors office, and one of the Doctors started talking with me.  He and everyone I met had been so friendly and helpful….so I ask him about that.  He said, "In our country we value people just as they are; in your country you value what people do, who they are."  I have never forgotten.

Sadly that may not be as true in Mexico now, with all the drug wars, murder and crime.  How sad we cannot bring out the value in people to be all they can be for the Lord, not to follow the devil and his demons into disaster.  Well, we can sure try by being an example for those around us….to look for the good, the value in them…..encourage that and treat them always with respect.

 

Pressing in and pressing on….

Ole’ Glory For The Glory Of God….

July 4th is a big celebration in the United States….I have heard in the past our flag was called Ole' Glory, and that term goes right to my heart!

For the Glory, the Majesty and the Grace of God we pray for our Nation, our armed forces world wide and their families.  We must also pray for those in leadership, even when we don't agree with them, as the Bible directs that we should do.

Jesus changed the world with forgiveness, and when we forgive our Leaders, and pray God's will into their lives, we are using heavenly power to change things.  My understanding of Agape Love (Greek word for love in the Bible) is that it means wanting the best for everyone.  Of course we want the best for all our leaders even when we adamantly disagree with their standards or behavior.

So I hope where ever you are, you will be wearing 'red, white and blue' this weekend…..that you have the opportunity to say the pledge of allegiance to the Flag, that you will sing patriotic songs and share with our young ones, love of country!

If we do not demonstrate to the youth, if we do not bring our patriotism into the church…..how will it grow, how will we prosper?

And, church is the perfect place……

Most of all we must not forget to thank God for all we have and bless Him for all He is doing!

My thanks to Him for all of you!

Carol

 

Pressing in and pressing on….