How can we apply "respect to whom respect is due" in our community? Key Verse “Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue, respect to whom respect, honor to whom honor.” (Romans 13:7) Why This Matters • Respect is not optional or situational; Scripture frames it as a debt we owe. • Our witness in the community shines or dims by the way we treat people made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). • When we give proper respect, we ultimately honor the One who instituted all authority (Romans 13:1). Biblical Foundations of Respect • God establishes governing structures (Romans 13:1–2). • We are commanded to “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.” (1 Peter 2:17). • The fifth commandment—“Honor your father and mother” (Exodus 20:12)—shows that respect begins in the home and flows outward. • Jesus modeled respect even under unjust authority (John 19:10–11). Heart Posture Behind Respect • Recognize God’s sovereignty: every person and position is under His rule. • Embrace humility: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) • Cultivate gratitude: seeing others as gifts rather than obstacles. Practical Ways to Show Respect in the Community 1. Government and Public Officials • Speak truthfully but courteously. • Pay taxes and fees promptly. • Pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1–2). 2. Workplace • Arrive on time; complete tasks with excellence (Colossians 3:23). • Speak well of supervisors and colleagues; avoid gossip. • Advocate for justice while maintaining a respectful tone. 3. Church Family • Honor elders and teachers who labor in the Word (1 Timothy 5:17). • Listen attentively, value differing spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:14–26). • Address conflicts privately and lovingly (Matthew 18:15). 4. Home • Children obey parents; parents do not provoke but nurture (Ephesians 6:1–4). • Spouses practice mutual honor (1 Peter 3:7). • Use words that build up, not tear down (Proverbs 18:21). 5. Neighborhood and Community Spaces • Greet people by name; show interest in their stories. • Respect property—clean up after yourself, obey local regulations. • Volunteer in community projects, seeking the welfare of the city (Jeremiah 29:7). Respect in Difficult Situations • When authority is unjust: – Follow the apostles’ model—obey God over man without contempt (Acts 5:29). – Appeal respectfully (Acts 24:10–21). • When offended: – “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” (James 1:19) – Extend forgiveness as Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32). • When opinions differ: – Maintain gentle speech (Proverbs 15:1). – Seek understanding before reacting (Proverbs 18:13). Motivations and Promises • Reflect Christ: “Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34) • Silence critics: “By doing good you should silence the ignorance of foolish people.” (1 Peter 2:15) • Enjoy God’s favor: “Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honor and life.” (Proverbs 22:4) A Daily Practice • Start each morning acknowledging God’s authority. • Ask, “Whom will I meet today that is owed respect?” • End the day reviewing interactions, confessing lapses, and thanking God for victories. Living “respect to whom respect is due” transforms personal relationships, strengthens local communities, and magnifies the glory of God before a watching world. |
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