First, we WIN the respect of others. We can’t demand it, but our life can command respect. Respect means “special esteem or consideration in which one holds another person”. Others respect us over time as they see our credibility.
Second, we win respect through our daily life. The thing about “daily” is that it is so e-v-e-r-y d-a-y – you know? Our daily attitude, daily behavior, daily work habits, daily words, daily demeanor, daily relationships, daily moods, daily actions will cause others to respect us or disrespect us. Lifestyle! That’s what it’s all about.
Third, we can help “outsiders” become “insiders”. Every Christian was once an outsider – outside the grace, love, peace, forgiveness, wisdom and hope of God through Christ. If you’re a Christian, almost certainly someone on the inside with Christ told you that only Christ could bring you inside to be with God! Is that true of you? If so, perhaps their credibility won your respect and motivated you to believe in the Christ they represented and presented to you. Credibiliy, consistency, sincerity, integrity – outsiders are drawn to these Christ-like traits in us.
A Christ-follower is always looking, hoping to see a respectful outsider following him to Christ! This brings us joy. The road to joy is paved with respect.
Regular as clockwork, we must give ourselves a respect / credibility check!
May God bless your lifestyle and may your lifestyle bless God – and outsiders.
For Him, Chuck
P.S.: Got any insider/outsider stories to share? Let me hear from you.