WF Pride

Recognition and Respect of Others

Chad Cottingham

“More is caught than taught!” explained Rachel Cruze, daughter of author and speaker Dave Ramsey. You may know him from his nationwide radio talk show or Financial Peace University. Rachel, as his grown daughter, was explaining what she had learned about how to handle money while growing up in the Ramsey household. She explained her father didn’t lecture her and her siblings constantly, rather he lived out his principles and she watched how he spent his money and gave generously as well.

Kids, and adults alike, learn more by what they see than by what they hear alone. American writer James Baldwin added this, “Children have never been good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.” Children learn respect (or disrespect) from how we treat them and others. They reflect back everything we, as parents, say and do. When we give children the same respect we demand, we are modeling this important character trait. This applies not only to children, but to our colleagues, our friends, and especially our family members. Remember, how we teach them is what we teach them.

This concept keeps popping up in my head… ‘More is caught than taught’. This applies to every area of our lives, including the area of respect. Respect is something we recognize, but do we really demonstrate it like we should? Respect can be shown in many ways such as speaking and acting kindly. A respectful person also avoids insults, doesn’t make cruel comments or use rude language. They are not condescending toward people who do not share their beliefs, likes and dislikes. They are courteous and considerate to family members and treat others fairly, regardless of race, sex, age or ethnic group.

This type behavior is Christ-like. When we refer to ourselves as Christians, we are calling ourselves by ‘Christ’s name.’ We honor His name when we treat others, as God wants us to, with love, respect and consideration. We also dishonor God when we say that we love Him and then turn around and treat others with disrespect. ‘Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ.’ 2 Thessalonians 1:12~ NLT

“Dear Lord and Heavenly Father, help us demonstrate the kind of respect towards others that you show us each and every day. Help us to see others how you see them, to love others how you love them. Help us to honor You by showing respect to all people. Amen”
Excerpts from Focus on the Family