“The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock…” 2 Samuel 27:87
The storms of life are raging—please, O Lord, give me grace to move through it.
What is it, do you suppose, that makes one person attack another with such great vengeance—without seemingly a conscience? And, at times, even sacrificing themselves. I know you know what I am talking about, even though, you try to be oblivious to it. Some will not even listen to the news or read about it when these horrible acts are reported! They just turn their backs, but, that does not make them as though they did not happen! It is a reality of the time.
I want to talk to you about three words that are all but forgotten and are sorely needed.
- Respect–regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of another. This is a very definite attribute of the human character. The respect of a child toward their parents; the respect of the highest office in the land; or a husband to his wife and wife to her husband.
Jesus had the greatest respect for his mother, even as he hung in agonizing pain on the cross. However, no one had respect for Jesus, instead they abused him and put him to death. But, in the process he stayed true to his character—a man filled with love. He asked God to forgive those who had put him there, because they didn’t know what they had done. I believe, also, that he meant all who had turned their backs upon God—past, present, and future. And, he maintained his love and respect for his mother as he provided, by way of his beloved disciple, John, someone to care for her. Can you show such respect?
- Loyalty—to be faithful to one’s oath, engagements or obligations. A relationship can only survive under the banner of loyalty. The relationship of one’s nation, marriage, and parents, are the three basic relationships that demand loyalty and respect in your daily walk. Of course, the relationship that gives balance and strength to these three is your relationship with Almighty God through Jesus Christ.
- Honor—an attribute of men and women of high esteem, those who live by a code by which there is no doubt that they understand respect and loyalty in their relationships. Jesus never ceased giving His Father, God, all honor and glory in all that he said or did. He knew from whence He came, therefore, He acted in a way that emanated His Father and lived in high esteem of His Presence.
If you are reading this, I pray that you are also reading the scriptures that have been noted at the bottom of the page. And when you read them, may you understand that it is not just a nice story, but one that should be taken seriously and incorporated in your life. You and I, need to allow the Word of God to transform us and become the “Living Word” of God. For if you believe, you are a child of God, as is Jesus. This transformation is the only thing that will save you from becoming one of God’s enemies who have no respect, loyalty or honor. Mark writes, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” (5:36) George Muller, in his book of meditations entitled “Faith” wrote, “As long as we are able to trust in God…the heart remains calm and peaceful.” (pg. 7)
Dear Lord, turn my face to You and fill my heart with love—even for my enemies. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN
Proverbs 27:17 Psalm 144:1 2 Samuel 22:35
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