appraise, estimate, gauge, esteem,

postulate – existent or necessary

commendatory – expressing praise

Walking in appreciation should be a continuing state of being. If we choose to walk in appreciation, we are more connected to others and aware. We tend to live more in the present when we're appreciative. We don’t miss opportunities that may require our acknowledgement.

The sinful woman story:

 Jesus was eating with Pharisees when a “sinful” woman showed up, brought a precious alabaster jar of expensive perfume, kissed Jesus' feet, and washed them with her hair and perfume. She showed an act of worship and gratitude to Jesus, and He forgave her sins in response. (Luke 7:36-50)

See, the woman who had issues in her life recognized that she was in need and gave up something valuable to Jesus. The gift showed her appreciation for a Savior. She received the love of Christ in her life, acknowledgement and most importantly a relationship with Jesus. There is real tangible fruit that comes out of appreciation!

 Be on the look out for reasons to let someone know how appreciative you are that they're apart of your life.

After assessing your present situation there is always an opportunity to be appreciative. Whether it’s realizing things could be worse or gathering that you’ve come such a long way or just the mere fact that you’ve been kept from so many things.

Whichever, there is always a clear reason to give Praise.

“Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no mater what happens. This is the way God wants you to belong to Christ Jesus to live.”

(1The 5:18)

Yes, this is not easy when you're experiencing difficult circumstances, however, remember we are never, ever alone. We have Jesus with us and the Holy Spirit on the inside of us giving us the strength to walk through every situation.

Appreciation goes such a long way. People’s hearts are filled when someone tells or shows them, they’re appreciated. There are times when I just want someone to recognize my efforts or the part I did. Not that I want the Glory, the Glory is all God’s. I merely would like to be appreciated for small things that I do:

*cook for my family

*clean for my family

*taking care of our children

* doing all the wifely duties

*Interceding for others

So much, much more…

Every now and then, we want to be celebrated and appreciated!! And, we all deserve to be acknowledged from time to time.

I know that these acts of kindness are our reasonable service, however, acknowledging what people do for you goes a long way. Taking people for granted is not the Christ like way, nor does it give an opportunity for others to know Christ and be drawn to him. See, walking the path of righteousness requires believers to be Polite, Appreciative, and Grateful. No matter, if there has been an offense, distraction, or rudeness. We are still called to be polite, appreciative and grateful.

I chose appreciative as the middle word in this study of 3 profound words, (Polite, Appreciate, & Grateful) because it helps us to pause. Appreciation gives us an opportunity to realize just how blessed we are in every situation. More importantly, it gives a pause for us to recognize, acknowledge and communicate our appreciation to others. It supplies as a gauge as mentioned in the Greek definition. The gauge is provided as a barometer, ways to stop, gather yourself, recognize where you are and thank God for all things.

“Appreciation increases self-esteem, leading to happiness and a sense of well-being.” -Mohmodirfansha

Be sure to take sometime out and let someone know that you appreciate them.

I can guarantee you’ll put a smile on their face.