Appreciate Such People

Daily Devotional – Saturday, March 25, 2023
For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore, acknowledge such men.
1 Corinthians 16:18 (NKJV)

There was a small town with only a few people, and a great king came with his army and besieged it. A poor, wise man knew how to save the town, and so it was rescued. But afterward, no one thought to thank him.

Recognize Such Persons

What an unappreciative lot! King Solomon narrated this story in Ecclesiastes 9:14–15 (New Living Translation) to illustrate how society despises poor but wise people. This narrative is a reminder to Christians to acknowledge those who support God’s work, gospel ministers, and those who practice benevolence.

No biblical character exemplifies this noble practice better than the Apostle Paul. For example, in First Corinthians 16:17–18, he writes, “I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they supplied. For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore, acknowledge such men.”

Appreciate Such Individuals

The three individuals Paul appreciates here are not famous. Most likely, they were not great preachers or teachers. What is evident, though, is that they assisted Paul either materially, morally, or in both ways. Therefore, Paul urged the Corinthian Christians to recognize such persons.

Another instance is Romans chapter 16. Here, the apostle mentions and thanks more than two dozen individuals in the church in Rome for their kindness and service in the Lord’s vineyard. He also recognizes the believers who were with him in service at the time of writing the epistle.

Such People Deserve Notice

Imagine the moment the epistle was read out in the church at Rome. How did Urbanus, Rufus, Tryphosa, Julia, Persis and others whose names appeared in the letter feel? Not only were they overjoyed, but they were also motivated to continue supporting Paul and the gospel ministry.

Make a list of the people who have been there for you during the good and bad times. They could be family members, friends, fellow believers, teachers, workmates, neighbours, spiritual leaders, political leaders, or community leaders. Find a way to let them know you appreciate their contribution to your life.

Acknowledge Such People

Arrange a face-to-face meeting with such a person and express your gratitude. If they are far, a phone call or text message will suffice. Where possible, recognize such persons in public. Even better, present a gift to them. Acknowledge such people and see how God will bless His ministry and everyone involved, including you.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach me to appreciate people who have stood by me and assisted me in good and bad times.