Demean

<<degrade>>

All people have been made in the image of God who values everyone equally and desires to have a heart relationship with each person. However, humans do not always treat each other this way. In some countries, women are despicably treated, in others places people of different ethnicity or social standing are devalued, as are those with physical disabilities. Joseph was scorned by his brothers, Samson was humiliated and the Jews were called feeble (Gen 37:19; Jdg 16:21; Neh 4:1,2). Jesus allowed Himself to be horribly insulted when He died in our place (Mk 10:34, 14:65, 15:16-20,29,30).

As believers, we should respect all people, especially those shunned by society and in the depths of sin, coming alongside them with practical Christianity. Through the gospel they can be raised up to be ‘‘seated with Christ in the heavenly places” with restored dignity, and heightened self-esteem as they are transformed by Him (Eph 2:6; Col 1:21). When we

See yourself as the Lord sees you – with great potential

lovingly reach out to those often overlooked by society we are commended by Christ, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these…you did it for me” (Mt 25:34-46). Rather than having an attitude of seeming superiority that judges the limitations and low expectations of others, encourage them to have confidence in their ability and assist them to reach their potential in Christ. Likewise, do not devalue yourself, or what God has and is doing in your life. He will bring to completion the good work He has started in us (Phil 1:6).

Differences do not determine values, they make us uniquely who we are. Many arrogantly consider they are superior with those not like them, inferior. The Bible says we are not to think of ourselves more highly than we should (Lk 18:9-14; Rom 12:3). We should respect all people, doing to them as we would like them to do to us is the golden rule for inter-personal relationships (Lk 6:31).

See also: anti-Semitism, golden rule, humiliation, insults, potential, respect, self-worth, slander, value.