Unconditional Respect
As Christians, we accept that we are in the world but not OF it; therefore, we choose to apply values in our lives that reflect Christ’s nature.
One value which is typically highlighted by society but often goes misinterpreted is respect.
Most individuals view respect as a reward one can earn. This is contrary to the will of God. Respect, similarly to grace, is something we as believers should choose to exact on others regardless of their treatment of us. We are called to love without first deciphering whether another is worthy thereof. We are called to display love unconditionally as Jesus did.
One phrase commonly quoted is “He/She has lost my respect”. However, God calls us to be merciful, see beyond the wrongdoing and to not depend on respect being expressed mutually.
