Sermon: Valuing, Praying, and Appreciating People Around Us
Beloved, God has granted us the freedom to choose our friends, but it is God who selects our neighbors. We don't get to choose the people we find ourselves surrounded by at work or in our communities; God places them in our lives for a reason.
As we go through life, we encounter various people some bring joy, others challenges, but each person has a purpose. God places everyone in our lives for a reason, whether they are a blessing, a lesson, or even a test of our faith. In Romans 8:28, we are reminded that “God works all things together for good to those who love Him.” This means that every person, whether they are kind or difficult, is part of God's divine plan for our growth and journey.
First, we should value people. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Those around us are here to shape us, refine us, and help us become who God has called us to be. Even those who challenge us might be teaching us patience, forgiveness, or perseverance. By valuing everyone, we acknowledge that God can use any relationship to grow us.
Second, we must pray for people. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” It’s easy to pray for those who love us, but we must also pray for those who challenge us. Through prayer, we can see people through God’s eyes, learning to love them despite their flaws or mistakes. Prayer softens our hearts and invites God to work in our relationships, turning difficult situations into opportunities for grace and reconciliation.
Finally, we are called to appreciate people. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Paul encourages us to “encourage one another and build each other up.” Showing appreciation acknowledges the worth of others and the role they play in our lives. When we express gratitude to those who help us and even those who test us, we demonstrate Christ’s love. Everyone has a purpose in God’s grand design, and when we appreciate them, we honor the work God is doing through them.
In closing, remember that everyone in your life has a reason and a purpose, whether they bring joy or challenge. Value them, pray for them, and appreciate them. By doing this, we not only grow in our faith, but we also reflect the love and grace of Christ to the world around us. Let us thank God for the people in our lives and seek His wisdom in our relationships. Amen.
Let us pray;
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the people You have placed in our lives. Help us to value, love, and appreciate each one, knowing that they are part of Your divine plan for us. Teach us to pray for others, especially those who challenge us, and give us the grace to see them through Your eyes. May our relationships reflect Your love and bring us closer to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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