Leading by example in this way gives strong credibility. An attitude of gratitude is great, but actions of gratitude are even better. Find one person today and show them appreciation in a practical way. Too much gratitude will never hurt a person’s feelings. So go ahead, find that person and do something radical for them! They deserve it!
5. Look in the right direction.
Hebrews 12:2 reminds us to “look unto Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of our faith.” If we get really truthful for a moment, we know pastors will never be fully appreciated. The late night calls. The sermon preparation. The lonely times of hurt. The disappointment by people we loved and cared for. It all hurts and creates seasons where we feel ignored, forgotten, or undervalued.
So what can you do in those discouraging times? Keep looking to Jesus. When you are not feeling valued, keep looking to Jesus. When you are hurt, keep looking to Jesus. When you are discouraged, keep looking to Jesus. Please, always keep looking to the Founder of our faith.
The value he sees in you is immensely more encouraging than anything you could ever receive from people. So keep looking in the right direction!
This article originally appeared here.
