Be the First to Offer Respect
My dear son,
It feels good when someone listens to you fully and treats you with courtesy. Today, try offering that kindness first. The respect that matters so much to you matters just as much to another person.
Love has little room to grow when kindness is reserved for people who already treat you well. I do not want your heart tied up in calculating what you will get back. A small kindness can be given freely.
You might begin by holding a door or giving someone your attention. Share willingly within your means. This morning, consider whom you can love rather than who is likely to repay you. I delight in that generous freedom.
With all my love,
Your Father
Luke 6:31–34
WEB31“As you would like people to do to you, do exactly so to them.
32“If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.
33If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same.
34If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much.
A short reflection
Jesus teaches people to treat others as they wish to be treated and to extend love, kindness, and generosity beyond those who will repay them.
World English Bible (WEB) · Public DomainRead the chapter