Have you ever heard the term "a pat on the back"? When someone does something well, people might congratulate them by patting their back or shoulder. Some people like receiving high-fives, handshakes, or hugs in response to a job well done.

Showing Appreciation

When you do something well, how do people let you know? And how does that make you feel? When someone indicates appreciation for my work -- or even my effort toward a task -- it makes me feel good. It encourages me to continue to work hard and to do my best.

How do you show someone that you appreciate what they have done? And how do they respond? When you show appreciation, you motivate people to continue in the work they need to do -- including the work God has given them.

Encourage Each Other

The Bible instructs us to encourage each other in the Lord's work: "Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them" (Ephesians 4:29). It tells believers to "encourage each other and build each other up" (I Thessalonians 5:11). Showing appreciation to others can strengthen and encourage them to walk in God's ways.

Witness to Others

Encouraging and showing appreciation to those around us is also a testimony to non-believers. Jesus said, "let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father" (Matthew 5:16). Those who see the love and encouragement among the Christian community can be inspired to follow the Lord and become part of His family. Christians should always obey God's instructions so that "[unbelieving neighbors] will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God" (I Peter 2:12).

*In our previous prayer letter, Reaching Out in Your Community, we cited scripture incorrectly. It should have been Psalm 112:4-5, not Proverbs. We apologize for the mistake and thank our sharp-eyed readers for catching it!

Prayer, Care, and Share Jesus

“More ways to show appreciation”
Matthew 8:3

There are so many great ways to make someone feel appreciated! As a follow up to last week, here are some more ways you can do that. According to author Gary Chapman, who wrote “The 5 Languages of Appreciation,” some practical ways to show appreciation are through quality time, acts of service and appropriate physical touch.

Some people feel very appreciated if one spends quality time with them. So for them, a little bit of your time focused directly on them will be a real blessing. It shows that you care. Upon request, Jesus stayed with the Samaritans for two days (John 4:40-41).

Some people appreciate small acts of service done for them. You can bring them something to drink or wash dishes for them. Jesus washed His disciples' feet (John 13:1-11).

Appropriate physical touch is another way of showing appreciation. Just like you read in the devotional above, this can be a handshake, hug, high five or a pat on the arm or shoulder (Matthew 8:3).

We live in a world where good service is in short supply, and often not appreciated. Let us appreciate people doing good around us, and be a light to the world. Do not forget to pray God's blessing on them too!