Esteemed Value

Acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. I Thessalonians. 4:13

Today’s passage continues by saying, “Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.”

Something happens to us when we choose to take the high road of respect and esteem for others in our lives, especially the ones who hold positions of leadership over us.

Though it may be in a whole new category, I would even include bosses at work or anyone who prays for us and cares for our well-being. I would include anyone given the responsibility and authority to make hard decisions and plans for our group or congregation.

Many times, all we see may be at the surface, like the frustrations, irritability or seeming neglect of our leaders. Yet, if we take a deeper look, these people carry such heavy burdens. We have no idea how much they do, how sleepless their nights and how intentional their work.

Not all managers are good leaders, but the ones that are solid stand out in our lives. They direct us in ways that benefit not only ourselves but the success of the whole group, if only we would humble ourselves to follow them. It is within our power to bless to these people and to encourage their efforts.

Of course, we give our input and share our ideas, but in the end, we refuse to have an ego that feeds hurt feelings or dampens our spirits and the spirits of those around us. In the long run, these attitudes only weaken the dynamic between the greater whole and spoils the greater plans.

Today’s verse speaks mainly about leaders at our places of worship. We pray for them and humbly listen to their guidance. Humility is not weakness; it is wisdom. It is learning how to see the vision of others and how to be a good team player. Instead of forcing our ideas into the mix, we speak them and then listen in considerate respect as we would want to be treated in similar circumstances.

Father, you created among us those who were born to be our leaders. These fine people have a built-in courage and understanding of how to fix problems and help move us out of troubling issues. When humility is in play in our hearts and we respond to these natural abilities, we gain so much more than when we disrupt and cause a stir. Teach us how to acknowledge, to esteem their value. Give us eyes to see the bigger picture of their great work. In Jesus name, Amen.