“Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity” (1 Timothy 5:1-2).
Our world is filled with hate and continuous demeaning of others. We want the story we want to be told. Stand in the truth and begin by treating others with respect and dignity. And then confront those who need to be confronted. But also, be willing to be confronted if you are the one who needs it. As we are willing to give, so also, be willing to receive. Do all this with pure motive.
Lord, in one sense, these things are easy to do, yet all around me I see that they are not done. Insofar as it is up to me, let me put these principles into effect. Lead me to see that You have given grace upon grace, and that should lead me to do the same. As I want to be respected, help me to respect others. We each are deserving of respect as those who are loved by You.
Lord Jesus, though chastised for doing so, You did not treat anyone differently. Whether tax collector, prostitute, or Pharisee, You dealt with each impartially. In that example, guide me according to Your grace. Lead me this day to put into practice this example of treating all whom I meet as ones whom You love enough to die for. But let me also learn to do so in truth. Amen.
