R*E*S*P*E*C*T! (Blog #7)

Otis Redding wrote and recorded a song entitled "R-E-S-P-E-C-T" before Aretha Franklin recorded the song and turned it into a big hit. Some dictionary definitions of the word respect include: "to feel or show deferential regard for, esteem; to avoid violation or interference with; willingness to show consideration or appreciation". [The Free Dictionary By FARLEX]

In the Ten Commandments, God spoke saying, "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." [Exodus 20:12 NIV] We generally would expect to learn respect from our parents. All of the Ten Commandments are based on love and respect, first of God, then our parents and fellow human beings. We are taught to respect human life, property, reputation, honor and dignity. In the same way as children are to respect their parents and those in authority, the same is true in reverse. Writing to the Christians at Colossae, the apostle Paul wrote "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." He also wrote "Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged." [Colossians 3:20-21 NIV]

Of course, aside from the parent - child relationship, there are many situations and occasions that call for respect. As stewards of the earth, you and I are expected to respect nature and to make every effort to preserve and protect its valuable resources and natural beauty. If we are stewards of an apartment, a house or any other type of property, we are expected to care for it whether it belongs to us or not. Abuse of property or failure to exercise good stewardship is not only disrespectful to the property and the owner of the property but also to the Creator who sets the standards for respect.

To this point, we have focused primarily on respect of the earth itself and property entrusted to our care. It should be no surprise that respect takes on many forms and shapes. We are also called to respect others in our speech and actions. It is clearly disrespectful to lead someone to believe that you have respect for their values and standards, only to let them down by choosing to do the opposite of what is requested and expected. When we knowingly violate another person's standards or property, you and I are in reality showing contempt for that person.

So if the question of respect or disrespect is one that challenges you, think about the alternatives and the impact your actions will have on someone or something.

~ DB Turnmire