Expressing Appreciation - Zac Poonen
Summary
The central message is the necessity of actively cultivating appreciation for others, especially those who serve us, as a way to combat the natural human tendency toward criticism and accusation. The speaker draws parallels with Jesus's own ministry, emphasizing that true discipleship requires emulating Jesus's ability to find and voice positive things about people, regardless of their perceived status or past failings. This practice should be applied to spouses, parents, children, and fellow believers.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why does the Bible command us to appreciate those who serve?The speaker questions why scripture instructs us to appreciate those who serve, noting that appreciation goes completely against our natural, critical human nature inherited from Adam.
Filling the heart with appreciation instead of just driving out criticismTrying to stop criticism without replacing it with something else fails, much like a failed diet; we must actively fill our hearts with appreciation for spouses, parents, and children without flattering or lying.
Jesus as the master of expressing appreciationJesus demonstrated the opposite of the satanic nature by openly appreciating an unconverted Roman centurion's great faith, showing we must learn to appreciate those around us.
Getting rid of false humility and jealousyBelievers must rid themselves of false humility and internal disturbances when seeing others appreciated, striving instead to be natural like Jesus in valuing people.
Developing the habit of valuing those who serve usWe should build the habit of valuing and thanking those who serve us, moving beyond mere social convention or teaching children to be hypocritical.
Appreciating character rather than external appearanceJesus never praised people for worldly advantages like expensive clothes or good looks; instead, we should praise children and others for character choices like sharing.
Starting with small expressions of thanks at homeBegin practicing appreciation with small things at home, such as thanking a spouse for making tea or working hard to provide for the family.
Writing thank-you notes on birthdaysThe speaker encourages writing thank-you notes to parents, spouses, and children at least once a year on their birthdays to express deep gratitude.
Ungratefulness toward spiritual elders compared to doctorsBelievers readily pay and express immense gratitude to doctors who heal the body, yet remain largely ungrateful toward spiritual elders who labor for their souls without charging money.
Considering others more important than yourselfTrue humility involves following the biblical command to consider everyone else more important than yourself and always expressing gratitude for any kindness.
Unlocking spiritual growth through giving thanksLearning to give thanks and appreciate others is one of the greatest secrets of the Christian life and cures a stunted spiritual walk.
Accepting appreciation graciously and receiving paternal disciplineWhen people thank you, accept it without false humility and give glory to God in secret; the speaker closes by offering these firm words as a loving spiritual father.
