There is a difference between respect for ones self and love of ones self. It can be readily seen in the world today in the actions of people. Love of ones self means you feel entitled and often leads to horrible treatment of others. Respect of ones self results in respect for others in most cases.
2 Tim. 1:13 “Beware that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Messiah!’ and they will lead many astray. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that you are not alarmed; for this must take place, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places: 8 all this is but the beginning of the birth pangs.
“Hold the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me in faith, and in the love which is in Christ Jesus.”
John Gilmary Shea, Pictorial Lives of the Saints (New York; Cincinnati; Chicago: Benziger Brothers, 1887), 334.
Persecutions Foretold
(Mk 13.9–13; Lk 21.12–19)
9 “Then they will hand you over to be tortured and will put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of my name. 10 Then many will fall away, and they will betray one another and hate one another. 11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. 12 And because of the increase of lawlessness, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14 And this good news of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the world, as a testimony to all the nations; and then the end will come.
The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition (Washington, DC: National Council of Churches of Christ, 1993), Mt 24:4–14.
Respect for others should not open the door to complete trust but should be tempered and tested. This is not disrespect but wisdom.
May the good Lord bless and keep you safe.
Remember to "Always Love The Details."
This resonates so strongly with me. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteLove, hugs and prayers xoxo
Respect for others doesn't translate into complete trust, Jim, just as you've stated. I love that President Reagan always said, "Trust but verify." Enjoy the Fourth!
ReplyDeleteDistinguishing between self-love and self-respect is an excellent point, especially regarding how those mindsets influence the way people treat those around them. The observation that respecting oneself naturally fosters respect for others, while remaining cautious with trust, is a very practical approach to navigating relationships wisely. Combining these personal reflections with scriptural reminders about enduring difficult times provides a lot of food for thought on staying grounded. It is a timely message about keeping perspective and maintaining boundaries in a chaotic world.
ReplyDeleteBom dia, Jim
ReplyDeleteReflexão edificante. Respeitar a si mesmo e ao próximo é viver sabiamente. Estamos vivendo tempos trabalhosos, que possamos aguardar a volta de Cristo com o coração confiante em Sua Palavra. Um forte abraço.
Deep words and thoughts Jim - and self respect is not something I have dwelt on - but I think I will be mulling over it as I go to sleep tonight
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Maxine