In Acts 3 we see Peter and John heal a lame beggar and while that is completely awesome, we also gain some perspective of how we should value others above ourselves.

While this teaching is not new, and it is pretty simple in theory, we often have a hard time following through. Let’s be those who don’t just think about doing these things but actually practically walk them out in our lives.

1. Always keep your eyes open. Don’t just go through the motions of the day. Look around. See what is going on. See who God puts in your path today. Sometimes we are so focused on our schedule that we fail to see the people that God wants us to help. Keep those eyes open and ask God to show you what and who you are supposed to see today.

2. Acknowledge those around you. Seeing people is great but spend some time conversing. A smile, a kind word, a word of encouragement, all could help to heal those we come into contact with today. One of the nicest sounds to people is the sound of their own name.

3. Give people your attention. Once you acknowledge that there are other people, give them your attention. It is done like this; listen. Listen to them in a way where they know they are being heard. Hear them not to correct or answer or suggest but to actually show them that they have been heard. Also listen to God so if you are called to respond, you will be giving wise counsel.

4. Make it about them. We are not called to give people what they think they need. We are called to give people what God tells us to give them. God made it all about us when He sent Jesus to die on the cross for us. That is the example He set and that is what He is calling each of us to.

5. Be amazing. This way of life is not common and when we truly live like this, people will be amazed. People will want to know why we do what we do. They will be amazed and begin to ask questions. When that happens, point them back to Jesus. Because He is truly amazing.

We have the opportunity to value others every day. Let’s be those who take full advantage of that opportunity. Let’s be those who value others.

-Pastor Dale