By Damien Knight
“Hypocrite, first remove the plank from your own eye.” Matthew 7:5
Respect is understanding other people have rights. It is following the golden rule and protecting those rights.
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6: 31
This means to treat others how you wish to be treated. If you behave in a bossy manner do not be surprised that others assume you want to always be told what to do. Placing out disrespect into the universe may earn you the same. If you are respectful you show, no earn others respect.
“Do not judge and you will not be judged… … forgive and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37
Gossip and idle talk, “She is such and such a person,” these statements are judgement. They pay no heed to respect nor will the earn you respect. Reserve judgements and give forgiveness, this is the path of respect and happiness.
“You say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye.” Luke 6:42
For me to point out wrongs in others and ignore my own is disrespectful. It is hypocrisy and it does not lead to growth and light. It does not lead to earning respect. You have to respect others to be respected.
The Shade of Writing 