In 1967 The queen of soul Aretha Franklin remade the former Otis Redding 1965 recording of the song “Respect” into a smash hit and one might say into a “movement”. Interesting enough, the essence and true meaning of the word “Respect” was not lived out nor magnified a whole lot during that time and even less today.
“Respect” in my opinion, is foundational and is a basic requirement for the proper healthy emotional growth and development of human dignity and self-worth from the cradle to the grave. The characteristics of respect are; basic regard, esteem, appreciation and sensitivity for the desires, feelings, rights and privileges of others.
In my opinion, basic respect has declined in many ways for various reasons. One main reason is the continuous moral decay of society. Since most of today’s society has put away or misinterpreted God’s manual, guide and standard measurement for right and wrong, decent, wholesome and godly living. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish truth and virtue by today’s yardstick because many view right as wrong and wrong as right.
The Bible states in 2nd Timothy 3:1-5 says This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (2) For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy. (3) Without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good. (4) Traitors, heady, high-minded. Lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God. (5) Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.
Beloved, respect is a basic human right. To be treated with kindness and human dignity is fundamental. Respect and how we treat others speaks volumes about ourselves and our character, especially the spiritual condition of our heart. Because the condition of our heart is a determining factor as to how we view the world, ourselves and others.
Today I’m happy to say that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and the only one that can change a heart. He can wash away the darkness, and fill the void, the hurt and the reoccurring pain, the bitterness, and rejection or whatever has blackened your heart and stole your joy causing you to project your pain as disrespect. God loves you my friend and from this moment on please think twice when interacting with others. Please be kind, respectful and treat them the way you would want others to treat you. if you experience disrespect, give it to God and pray for the person. God does not want us to be a doormat but whenever possible refuse to respond to such dark, evil and ungodly behavior
Scriptures to stand on:
Mathew 7:12 KJV:
Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Ephesians 6:8 KJV:
Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.
Proverbs 23:7 KJV:
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
Proverbs 4:23 KJV:
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Supportive Poem:
Respect
by Don Wilson
Respect is a lesson that everyone should learn
Respect must be given before an expected return
Respect is something that’s given for free
Respect is about us and never about me
Respect is the basis on which relationships are founded
Respect is the anchor that keeps a person well grounded
Respect builds the character and defines who we are
Respect sets the standard and raises the bar
Respect is magnanimous and helps to fulfill
Respect is the partner that sits with good will
Respect is like honey so sweet it’s perceived
Respect a taste to savour for when it’s received
Beloved, If you want to develop a personal relationship with this Jesus or rededicate your life to Him, please read and embrace the scripture below, then repeat the brief prayer under the scripture
Scripture: Romans 10:9-10 KJV:
- That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shall be saved.
- For with the heart, man believeth unto righteousness; with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.
Brief prayer:
Lord Jesus, I believe that you died on the cross for my sins and was raised from the dead. I now repent of my sins and ask that you come into my life and save me, creating the vessel you desire for me to be in Jesus’s name, Amen!
Beloved, if you have just said the above prayer. I want to welcome you into the Family of God and send you some free material to help you in your faith walk, so please email me immediately at [email protected], to share your life-changing decision that will last for all eternity.