Appreciation
 by David Smith

 

"There was once a small city with only a few people in it. And a powerful king came against it, surrounded it and built huge siegeworks against it. Now there lived in that city a man poor but wise, and he saved the city by his wisdom. But nobody remembered that poor man." 
Ecclesiastes 9:14-15

Disaster was averted and lives were spared. "But nobody remembered that poor man." Wise words of counsel were given and heeded and so, lives were blessed innumerably. "But nobody remembered that poor man."

Could sadder words be spoken? I think not. "...nobody remembered that

poor man."

 

This time of year we naturally think of giving more so than we do in any other season. But the best thing you can give this season, or any season, isn't for sale. It comes freely, but only deliberately. And because you can't touch it, it can never wear out.  It's called "appreciation."

This season as you give, give your heart. As you share presents of possessions, help someone possess their spirit -- tell them of your appreciation for them.

Remember that poor man. And all the people like him. All the people God has sent your way to help steer you away from destruction time and again ... all your life. Bless them today by remembering them. Those you know well and those whose names you know not. Give those you know what they need -- your appreciation. Give those who have blessed you and you never knew it what they need -- your kindness, and so, your appreciation. Your appreciation of the lives of others may very well be the very best gift you can ever give. So give it often. For it costs you little, and those who receive it are wealthy indeed.

  Father, thank you for blessing our lives with others. We need them so. Amen.

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  (c) 2000 David Smith.