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April 22, 2007
"Appreciation Will Transform Your Relationships"
It's All About Relationships—Part 2
1 Thessalonians 5:11
There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread.
—Mother Teresa
Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
—1 Thessalonians 5:11
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
—Ephesians 4:29
Definition: Appreciation—to recognize the quality.
What do we need to appreciate?
1. Appreciate people's loyalty.
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now...
—Philippians 1:3-5
- "Behind the scenes" people deserve our appreciation.
Question: When do you appreciate loyalty the most?
A friend loves you all the time, and a brother helps in time of trouble.
—Proverbs 17:17 (NCV)
2. Appreciate people's differences.
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
—Colossians 3:13-15
3. Appreciate people's work (efforts)
We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
—1 Thessalonians 1:2-3
You must show your appreciation to all who serve so well.
—1 Corinthians 16:18 (NLT)
They have comforted me, and they have comforted you. Therefore, show people like these your appreciation.
—1 Corinthians 16:18 (GWT)
Question: Who has made an effort on your behalf?
- When was the last time you thanked your parents?
- When was the last time you thanked your child's teachers?
- When was the last time you thanked a waitress or other service provider?
If you wait until things are perfect, you will never appreciate anyone.
Honor your father and your mother...
—Exodus 20:12
Definition: Honor—To esteem, to show respect for, to admire, to credit.
How does appreciation work? (How do you do it?)
1. It needs to be real, genuine, and heart-felt.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
—Romans 12:9-10
2. It needs to be recognizable.
Clear, specific, words of encouragement
Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!
—Proverbs 15:23
Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.
—Proverbs 12:25
3. It needs to be regular.
But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord
—2 Thessalonians 2:13
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
—Galatians 6:10
Lifework
Who do I need to appreciate or honor?
- Write a note to someone.
- Give a compliment to every person in your family this week.
What do you need to appreciate that God has given or done for you?
How can I appreciate God? By giving myself to Him!