The Importance of Valuing One Another
In commemoration of Black History Month, the Church of God is pleased to present a series of articles, features, and devotionals written by pastors and ministry leaders of African descent within the denomination.
By Dr. Aaron R. Jones
“Sincerity makes the very least person be of more value than the most talented hypocrite.” –Charles Spurgeon
As we grow as an Intercultural Church, there is a key component we must embrace. It is the importance of finding value in each other. When valuing one another God’s way, walls are being removed and culture lines are being crossed. God valued us when we were dirt in His hands, and He still saw fit to breathe life into us. “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; man became a living soul (Genesis 2:7).”
In Philippians 2:3, the Apostle Paul says, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” When we value one another, it says we all are useful and important. When we value one another, this puts us all on the same playing field. Our value of one another must come through the filter of Jesus Christ and the work on the cross. Valuing one another is looking at people through the eyes of Christ and not by the standards of men.
Valuing one another says:
“I will not put you in my mode.”
“Your perspective matters.”
“I am concerned about your promotion.”
“It is important that I know something about you.”
“I will adjust my schedule to make time for you.”
When one values another, he/she doesn’t see himself/herself as better nor looks down on the other, but appreciates the differences. As an Intercultural Church, we cannot just value the circles of people we create and never venture outside of those circles to build the church. Just think: “What an awesome environment we create when we value one another!” This aids in building a community within the church and reflecting an Intercultural Church.
Let’s Be Intentional in Valuing One Another!
Aaron Jones
–Dr. Aaron R. Jones is founder and owner of God’s Comfort Ministries and senior pastor of New Hope Church of God in the Delmarva-DC region. www.godscomfort.net
