Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life of a person around. Have you thought to say to someone, “I am so proud of you, and I hope you are, too. You are making a difference and you deserve a hug right now.” Or something as simple as, “you are a great example to others.”
Is it hard for you to compliment others on their achievements? When someone’s name comes up in conversation, do you feel good because something positive has happened to them? When you hear something complimentary about another person, do you feel like saying, “keep up the good work.”
Too often people have an attitude of comparing themselves to others. Are you preoccupied with what others are doing? Things such as buying, wearing, and who others mix and mingle with? If so, this attitude will destroy your reason to give acts of kindness to others. Do you trust the people you love, or are you always checking up on them? These are negative attitudes that can make you unhealthy.
The Bible teaches that a peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; however, jealousy is like cancer in the bones. Note the word health. If you want to be mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically healthy, don’t give place to an attitude of un-complimenting. It eats away at you and steals your joy and happiness.
An uncomplimentary attitude can lead to resentment and strife. How do you conquer an attitude of being uncomplimentary? (1) Acknowledge you have a problem. (2) Pray for the person who is the target of your negative comments.
At first it will feel awkward, but as you keep doing it, God will change your heart and replace your attitude with love. Start celebrating other people’s success with them and make a point of complimenting them. Remember, nobody else is as good at being you as you. So, you have no competition.
When you are secure in who you are before God, you don’t have to be uncomplimentary with others. Today, decide on having a spirit of being complimentary. Be blessed and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Chaplain Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
