LOVE DOES NOT DISHONOUR OTHERS
1 Corinthians 13:5
We are still discussing the attributes of love. Love is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul describes the characteristics of genuine love. Today, we’ll focus on the aspect of love that “does not dishonour others”.
Dishonouring others means to treat them with disrespect, contempt, or disregard. It involves actions or words that belittle, humiliate, or demean others. Dishonouring other people manifests in various ways which include but not limited to the following: verbal abuse; using hurtful, condescending, or derogatory language towards others; shoeing disrespect, contempt or disregard for their feelings, opinions, or boundaries; humiliation: publicly embarrassing or belittling others to assert power or control, through manipulation: using guilt, anger, or self-pity to control or influence others, and by neglect: ignoring or disregarding others’ needs, feelings, or well-being. When we gossip about people, spreading rumours, lies, or hurtful information about them, we dishonour them. When we intentionally and purposely exclude people from social events, conversations, or activities and use physical force or violence to harm or intimidate others.
Honouring people does not belittle us as individuals but rather is an act of love. Honouring others involves treating them with respect, dignity, and value. It means considering their feelings, needs, and perspectives. Honouring others is a fundamental aspect of loving them.
Rather than dishonour people, live an exemplary Christian life by showing respect for others’ boundaries, opinions, and feelings (Ephesians 5:33). try and show empathy towards the feelings of others (Romans 12:15). Try to understand others’ feelings, needs, and concerns. Be kind and compassionate towards others (Ephesians 4:32). Treat others with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or status.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, help us to love others in a way that honours them. May our words, actions, and attitudes reflect the love and respect you’ve shown us
