Scripture
“I am very glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have come here. They have been providing the help you weren’t here to give me. They have been a wonderful encouragement to me, as they have been to you. You must show your appreciation to all who serve so well.” 1 Corinthians 16:17-18 (NLT)
Observation
It’s nice to be appreciated right? More importantly, it’s nice to show appreciation for someone else. I really enjoy finding opportunities to exhort.
Paul understood the power of words. In his writings he chastises and builds up, he is very deliberate in how he chooses his words. He knew the effect of showing appreciation and instructs others to show it to “all who serve so well”.
Application
Do you have the spiritual gift of exhortation? No? So what, do it anyway, people need to know that you are appreciative of them. You don’t have to have the spiritual gift to do it!
As for me I need to continue looking for opportunities to exhort others too.
Prayer
God, thanks for giving us people to share this journey with. Thank you for the opportunity to show appreciation for the actions of others.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
You sure know how to lift me up, James. Thank-you for always making me feel appreciated and loved. Even when I feel like a horrible wife and mother, you make me feel like a superwoman!
Thanks snuggle wuggles.