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GLEANINGS FROM THE WORD
Encountering an extraordinary God in ordinary life
Issue #324 November 16, 2001
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
In the words of the old song, "All I’m looking for is just a little respect." It sounds pretty reasonable doesn’t it?
It’s more than reasonable, as believers, we are called of God to give it.
Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. 1 Peter 2:17 NIV
The ASV is even stronger:
Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. 1 Peter 2:17 ASV
After I read this verse last night, I had some serious repenting to do.
Proper respect (honor) for everyone, not just some people, not just those you like. When was the last time you complained about your boss, your spouse or your neighbour? When was the last time you were rude to someone because of his or her race or religious beliefs? Avoided someone because they were afflicted with a physical or mental disability?
Love the brotherhood of believers. Not just warm fuzzies, but real caring, sacrificial love?
Fear God. Not in the sense that God is angry with me and I might be ash in a flash, but in the sense of a deep reverential awe. You don’t hear much about fearing God from the pulpit these days.
Honor the king. That might be your local mayor, or the president. When was the last time you told a Clinton joke, or if you’re Canadian made fun of Jean Chretien’s accent?
We don’t have to agree with everything being done by all men, but we have a duty of respect and courtesy. Why?
The preceding verses in 1 Peter tell us:
Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God 1 Peter 2:13-16
It is God’s will for us to do so. If you are one of those people who are searching for God’s will in your life, here is a good place to start.
Until next time, may you follow the will of God and respect (honor) all men even those you dislike or don’t agree with their viewpoint or beliefs.
God bless.
Kevin
Do you know this God who wants all men (people) honoured? He wants even the unlovable to be loved.
Email me and I’ll share a few Bible verses about the importance of a relationship with Jesus and a prayer that will make it possible.
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© 2001 K.F. "Kevin" Corbin
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