The character you display in your daily walk is a powerful form of evangelism. The example you show to the non-Christians around you is one of the most effective ways to make people curious about the faith that drives your behavior. It causes people to pause and take notice. It makes them wonder how they can walk in the hope and assurance that you do! It turns unbelievers into seekers. One of the most critical building blocks of a good character is HONOR.
The dictionary defines honor as: 1) to regard with great respect, and 2) to fulfill an obligation or keep an agreement. But the character trait of honor goes far beyond that and is revealed in many ways. Practicing honor in our daily lives changes us, the people around us, and the ways we relate to each other. What could your life be like if you followed this wise advice?
Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. (Romans 12:10 ESV)
Honor should be shown to everyone at all times: to parents and to children; to employers and employees; to leaders and to fellow volunteers; to friends and to enemies; at work, in church, in the home and in play. Honor paints every relationship with glory. But consistently demonstrating honor is not easy. It’s something you need to work on every day.
Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. (1 Peter 2:17 ESV)
So what does HONOR look like in real life? From the very beginning of RLI, showing the culture of HONOR has been a core value of Restoring Lives International. A few weeks ago, we asked a group of fifty RLI volunteers to paint a picture of what honor looks like in the ministry. Their answers were interesting…and humbling! I think their answers apply to you, to me and to everyone around us. Here are some excerpts from what they said about showing honor.
A person who demonstrates HONOR:
- Recognizes each person for their unique contribution.
- Celebrates others accomplishments and progress.
- Covers the shortcomings of others instead of exposing their faults or mistakes
- Follows through with what they commit to do.
- Shows kindness and respect through the tone of their voice and non-verbal communication.
- Practices active listening during conversations.
- Has a welcoming, loving spirit and attitude, consistent without judgement.
- Is on time, or even a few minutes early.
- Encourages everyone by noticing the “gold” in them.
- Values every person just where they are.
- Doesn’t interrupt or finish others’ thoughts.
- Keeps personal conversations private and confidential.
- Respects every person as a unique, favored child of God.
- Takes the blame rather than giving blame.
- Seeks to understand before seeking to be understood.
Take a minute and read back through that list. If you scored yourself, how well would you do? Which aspects do you need to work on? Pick a couple, focus on them and try to improve your score as you practice them throughout the days ahead. Honor God by being a person of honor!