Respect: A Simple Fix For Your Relationship Issues

So many of our relationship problems could be fixed with one simple tool.  Respect.  If you are having problems in your relationships -- at home, at church, at work, at school, on the team -- it is probably because there is a lack of respect on one or both sides.  

This is why Paul told the church in Rome, "Take the lead in honoring one another (Rm 12:10b)."  In other words, be eager to show respect for one another (Leon Morris, Pillar NT Commentary).  Treat each other with the utmost respect.  Paul knew that for the church to get along and get things done, they had to respect each other.  

What is respect?  It is simply treating people like they are important.  But better than a definition of respect is a description.  The following are just the basics of respect.  

• Be polite.   
• Look at people when they speak to you.   
• Tell people hello or good morning when you see them.   
• When people speak to you, answer them.   
• If someone calls you or texts you, answer the phone, or get back to them as soon as possible.   
• When you ask for something, ask politely.   
• When someone does something nice for you, be sure to say thank you.   
• Try your best to not be mean, or rude, or offensive.   
• Don’t talk about someone behind their back.   
• Don’t lie to people.   
• If you say you’re going to do something, do it. 

This stuff is so simple.  This is what kids are supposed to be taught at home and at school.  If you can learn to respect people -- everyone you meet, then most of your relationship problems will disappear.