The Work Is Worth It

As I write this, I am enjoying a roasted tomato and mozzarella panini . . . for free!

To be fair, I did buy 12 food or beverage items in order to earn this reward. So is it really free then?

According to Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord."

This is truly a free gift. We do not have to pay in advance to earn a certain number of "stars" which then lead to a "free" reward. It's free no matter what we have or have not done. God loves us unconditionally, with no work required on our part.

This is not the case in our other relationships. Relationships require work. 
John Maxwell (in Today Matters--an older book but still good) states that if we want to build positive relationships, we need to consider "the following truths about people -- and actions you can take to bridge the gap often caused by them:

People are insecure . . . give them confidence.
People want to feel special . . . sincerely compliment them.
People desire a better tomorrow . . . show them hope.
People need to be understood . . . listen to them.
People are selfish . . . speak to their needs first.
People get emotionally low . . . encourage them.
People want to be associated with success . . . help them win."

I know that I am selfish. I am not always the best friend, wife, mom, daughter, sister, etc, but I really want to be. This is a good reminder for me to put in the time and effort needed to have positive relationships. I long to be a blessing to others.

John Maxwell sums it up this way: "When you understand people, don't take their shortcomings personally, and help them succeed, you lay the groundwork for good relationships."

If I'm willing to buy 12 food or beverage items in order to receive a reward, shouldn't I be just as willing (or even more so) to "pay ahead" in all of my relationships? Good relationships are the reward I am working towards.