+DEV+ Appreciation

Date: June 2, 2009 2:42 AM

Topic: +DEV+     Appreciation

Appreciation

Scripture Focus: Luke 17:11-19

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body, you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15).

Remember the old cheer? Two, four, six, eight, Who do we appreciate? We high school students yelled our appreciation to the team.

We all like to hear at least a thank you for what we have done. Appreciation in some form helps cement relationships.

Jesus didn’t settle for a few words of thanks when He was appreciative. For instance, after He healed ten lepers, only one returned to thank Him. The other nine went on their way. Jesus was disappointed at the ingratitude of the nine, but He rewarded the thankful one with spiritual cleansing, a much greater gift than physical healing.

As Christians, our lives should be characterized by an attitude of gratitude which is expressed both to God and to others. Paul wrote to the Ephesians that their lives should not be known for evil living but for thanksgiving. He commanded the Colossian believers to walk in Christ, “rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith . . . and overflowing with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:7). 

Insight: How well do you express your appreciation to God and others? Have you failed to thank anyone? Build a bridge of appreciation to that one.