Practicing Respect
In Monday’s post, I told you I had finally landed on the word I feel God wants me to focus on during 2023: RECEIVE. I also explained, three other “R” words seemed to resonate at different times during this decision process: Respect, Restraint, and Rejoice.
Even though I knew I decided on the correct “theme” word, I couldn’t help but wonder why these other words had felt so significant—if not “just right—” during this process.
In terms of the word RESPECT, I thought about the many not-so-respectable things going on in the world right now as well as a lot of people whose behaviors don’t inspire my respect.
Once again, while pondering this, I was drawn to another passage in Philippians taken from The Message*, which often speaks deeply to my soul. The Apostle Paul was in prison when he wrote the words recorded in Philippians, encouraging his friends, who were also experiencing persecution for their faith:
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. (Philippians 4:8-9 MSG)
During 2023, I plan to not only RECEIVE these words Paul wrote but commit to memorizing and practicing them. Rather than focusing on what and who are not respectable or what is wrong rather than right, I will try to turn my thoughts toward those things highlighted above. In doing so, I the process of disciplining my thoughts, I imagine I will experience less anxiety, more love, and greater understanding about how to reflect the character of Jesus.
I know I am not always going to be successful. I suspect there will be many times I have an internal argument with God when I am reminded to respond with grace and prayer rather than snarky retorts or critical thoughts. Hey, we’re all on a journey of a thousand small steps. But I am excited to learn how meditating and practicing the words of Philippians 4:8 & 9 will strengthen my steps and help me progress in my journey.
Blessings on your journey of a thousand small steps!
Sue Reeve
*NOTE: For those who are unfamiliar with The Message, here’s Amazon’s description:
The Message is a reading Bible translated from the original Greek and Hebrew Scriptures by scholar, pastor, author, and poet Eugene Peterson. Thoroughly reviewed and approved by twenty biblical scholars, The Message combines the authority of God’s Word with the cadence and energy of conversational English.
Blessings on Your Journey,
