Appreciation

<<thankfulness>>

We are often quick to complain, condemn and criticise others, which tears down their self-esteem, creating inter-personal tension and hard feelings. Unfortunately, often we are slow to give sincere thanks and praise either directly to the person themselves or indirectly by telling another person about them. Make a habit of finding some positive thing to comment upon and overlook the inconsequential blunders we all make. “Love hides a multitude of sins” (1 Pet 4:8). By looking for the good in others their faults won’t appear so huge.

Many people, starved for love, acceptance and a feeling of being needed or valued seek it in wrong relationships or try to deaden the pain through destructive habits or substances. We can communicate encouragement to others verbally, in writing, by a physical hug (as appropriate) or in the form of a gift. Genuinely demonstrate your gratitude. Our thanks might be all the difference between a weary person continuing or giving up.

We all know the boost it gives when others compliment or congratulate us. When they show appreciation for a job well done it encourages us to give it our best next time too. We are encouraged to “Do to others, what we would

Who have I showed appreciation to today?

like them to do to us” (Lk 6:31). This is often refered to as the golden rule. It is common courtesy to show appreciation to those who have enriched our lives in some way.

Jesus was disappointed that only one of the ten healed lepers, came back to thank Him (Lk 17:11-19). Although they all benefited they failed to acknowledge the person by whom this blessing had come about. What is my response when something good is done to me? Do I express my thanks? The healed beggar leapt and praised God, verbally showing his appreciation for the miracle that had taken place in his life (Act 3:1-10).

As Christians, do we regularly express our heartfelt gratitude to God for our salvation and the many blessings He gives us?