The Heart of Who I AmSample

I RECOGNIZE OTHERS

The great author C.S. Lewis wrote, "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less." I like Rick Warren's quote even better: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking more of others."

The book of First Peter tells us to "dress yourselves..." I'm going to stop right there for a moment. "Dressing ourselves" is an action we must do. I can't just think, "Yawn, good morning, world. Let me think myself dressed." No, I must get up and put on clothes. The Word of God tells us to put on "humility as you relate to one another, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (1 Peter 5:5).

Likewise, 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us to build one another up. Let's take a look at examples of how to remain humble and encourage others.

• Congratulate others
  Send a simple text or message of "Congratulations on..."
• Brag about others
  Point out others' positive traits and accolades: "Did you see that Jill won first place in the relay?" or "Seth gives great presentations."
• Introduce others
  Recognize those around you and put them at ease by introducing those who may not know each other. "Jason, this is Jill. She's the one who just won the relay" or "Tracy, this is Dylan. Dylan has been my good friend since childhood."

Notice the last word in each tip: others. It's all about others. Romans 12:10 takes this a step further: "Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."

And a bonus tip: When others recognize you, say a simple "Thank you." Accept recognition as a way God is working visibly in your life.

NEXT STEP: Think of the names of 5 people in your life. Write down how you could introduce them to others while recognizing them or showing them honor.