So that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders...When others look at your life, what do they see? Does your daily life win the respect of others? As believers, we are Christ's representatives in the earth. We are called to a higher standard. The way we live our lives should bring glory to God the Father.
(1 Thess. 4:12 NIV)
Notice this verse doesn't say, "Go out of your way to do something major so that everyone will respect you." It doesn't say, "Win a gold medal or Pulitzer prize so that people will glorify your Father in heaven." No, it says that your daily life should win the respect of others. That simply means to always take the high road and live a life of excellence. It means doing the right thing even when no one is looking. It means finding common ground in order to be a peacemaker. It means going out with an attitude of faith and thanksgiving.
Remember, you will become like whomever you spend the most time with. If you are committed to spending time with God the Father every day, you'll develop His character. You’ll win the respect of outsiders and bring glory to your Father in heaven!
A Prayer for Today
Father, today I dedicate every area of my mind, will and emotions to You today. Help me live my daily life as an example of Your love. Let me honor You in all I do so that my daily life wins the respect of others in Jesus’ name! Amen.
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Joel Osteen is a native Texan and the Pastor of Lakewood Church, which according to Church Growth Today is America's largest and fastest growing church.
