The Value Of Respect

By Bro. Barry Coffey

“O that my ways were directed to keep thy statues.  Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.” (Psalms 119:5-6) David’s cry was a righteous one: Lord, direct my ways to keep thy word.  In other words if there is going to be any changing going on, let me change to your way of doing things.  David understood that a young man cleanses his way by taking heed to the Word of God, and that means more than just listening to it, but being a doer of the Word as well.

   The Word of God teaches much about respect and “godly fear,” and Brother Branham re-enforced that Biblical teaching in many ways.  We must have respect for God’s servants, for those in authority, for the Word and the House of God, and for the things that clearly we know God is doing.  Brother Branham said because God is God, He deserves respect, and that is why we must serve God God’s way (Hebrews 12:28).

   Respect (which is the same as godly fear in Scripture) can be defined in three ways.

First, there is a natural reaction we have to impending danger which makes us “afraid.” For example if you knew that the car you were driving was going to slide into another object, and you couldn’t stop it, you would react with fear, a natural human response.  The second kind of respect is to abstain from doing something because you know there will be a punishment that follows.  Children learn this kind of respect when they perceive that certain actions will bring a negative response from their parents.  The dread of the punishment induces a respect for the rules. The third definition is more important for us, and it refers to what David is praying for.  Godly respect is rooted in love and a desire never to offend God because you love Him.  It is the kind of godly fear that would be in your heart even if there was no punishment or negative consequence.  I believe David was praying for this kind of respect when he asked to change many of his own ways to better coordinate with God’s ways.  Out of a love for God and His purposes, David desired to cleanse his way and hearken to every Word.  What a godly desire!

   This third kind of respect is the desired kind for the Bride of Christ.  No matter how young or old you may be, you must sincerely be willing to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Rom. 12:2) The value of showing this kind of respect is twofold. When we listen to God’s Word, then we can draw strength and wisdom from the mind of the Almighty.  And secondly, respect brings reward.

   In the message “Respects” (Vol 13:4), Brother Branham speaks about Jezebel disrespecting the Word of the Lord brought through her pastor, Elijah.  She died a horrible death in the street (Pg. 17). But he also speaks of the Shunamite woman who perceived that Elisha was a true man of God.  She received a son in her old age and even when the son died, she saw him raised to life because of her continual respect for God’s servant (Pg. 21-23).

   In Psalms 105:11, David recalls the journey of the Israelites and God’s promises to them.  He says that because they were walking according to god’s promises they were afforded Divine protection and “…he suffered no man to do them wrong: yea He reproved kings for their sakes.”  Obviously, a people walking according to his Word are guided and cared for.  They had Jehovah making a way for them when there was no apparent way.  He got them through some difficult terrain, and blessed them with a bountiful supply.

   I trust that we, too, learn to appreciate the way our Lord Jesus Christ has led the way through the ages of His beloved Bride. The value of respecting His Word means He remains on our side and against our enemies.  Respecting parents and those in authority is all a part of respecting His Word.  Treating ourselves and other young people with respect is very much a part of the correct “fear of God.”  He has never promised us an easy or passive journey but He would always be with us till the very end.  He will help you overcome temptation and strife and overcome the many hurdles and pressures this life can bring.  But the key to His continued blessing is a true respect for His Word.  May we all learn to value what God is doing in our midst.