Debt of Honor

From my morning reading

1 Peter 2:17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

Do you remember what people typically said during the last political campaign? Many of them verbally attacked and cursed the candidates who were running for office. Have you ever paid attention to what the fans usually say at sporting events? The language is what I call "trash talk." Have you ever listened to what your coworkers say about the people who run the company? They often sneer at and ridicule the officers.

1 Peter 2:17 directs us to show respect to everyone, which means that we are to speak in a respectful and affirming way about others. The Lord wants us to give all people the gift of dignity that is theirs because they are created in His image. This point remains true even though people do not always deserve to be given respect. In the play Man from La Mancha, the honor and respect with which Don Quixote treats Dulcenia challenges her to become an honorable woman.

Honor all people so that they might be encouraged to live up to that honor. Also, be sure to love the brotherhood, thus encouraging them to respond in kind. Above all, revere God, for He is your Lord, and respect the authorities, who serve in His name. Doing so will greatly please your Maker and Master.

Dear God, please help me to give people the respect and affirmation that they should receive as those who have been made in Your image. Amen.

From GOD'S MAN
A Daily Devotional Guide to Christlike Character
Edited by: Don M. Aycock