Valuing Others

As humans, and particularly Americans, we tend to put a value on everything.  Typically that value is measured in economic terms.  Is that the proper model for viewing other individuals, or ourselves?

As Christians we should value one another as God values us, not in economic terms, but rather in relational terms.  Genesis 1:26 tells us that we are all created in the image of God.  This alone makes us very special in his view, and should be a cornerstone for how we relate to one another.  In the book of John we are told:

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another;

as I have loved you, that you also may love one another.  By this

all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

John 13:34-35

This past week, in the same day, I had reminders of this on both ends of the spectrum.  During a meeting at work I posed a question that, at its core, was rather cold and lacking compassion.  Thankfully, when the meeting was over my boss called me out on it and helped me realize the selfish nature of what I had said.  Just a few hours later I was having a running correspondence with one of my daughter's teachers (not from this school year, but the past) who was encouraging her and some other former students to participate in an event at a nearby university on Saturday.  Not only was he taking care of his current students, but also continuing to watch out for and develop his former students.  In this case I took the opportunity to thank him for this and made the following statement,

"thank you for the confidence you instill in your students

especially Olivia.  The school system would be so much

better if all faculty invested in kids the way you do."

Since Friday when these events occurred I have had several thoughts on how inconsistent I was in my actions and words that day.  As a leader in my home, my church family, and my workplace I must do a better job of recognizing the value of others.  Beyond that I need to help others recognize that value in themselves.  Many around us need an encouraging word, or the confidence boost of sharing our trust in them.  

5 Ways of Showing

Others Their Value

1) Give your undivided attention

2) Express thanks whenever possible

3) Teach them something new

4) Be consistent

5) In the words of Ronald Reagan, "trust but verify"

I intend to take these to heart and put them more consistently into practice, and hope that you may do likewise.  If you we would all do this it would Make Today GREAT!