During a recent study, 200,000 employees were interviewed to discover
the missing ingredient in their productivity. The study concluded that
appreciation and affirmation topped the list of what they wanted most from
their superiors. This research implies that receiving affirmation is a basic
human need.
The apostle Paul seemed to realize this basic need in the Corinthian
believers, so before he peppered them with firm words of discipline, he
showered them with affirmation. As their spiritual leader, Paul began his
letter with thanksgiving to God for the grace being displayed in their lives.
Once far from God, these believers were now participating in His grace
through the death and resurrection of Christ. United with Jesus, they were
drawing their spiritual life from Him, and the fruit of this union was their
spiritual growth in godliness (1 Cor. 1:4-7). Paul deliberately and
continually thanked God for His work in the Corinthian believers’ lives. I
imagine that they were better able to bear firm criticism from Paul because of
his tender affirmation.
When we see people who are obeying God, let’s take time to affirm them
and to thank God for what He’s doing through them.
Praise loudly – correct softly. (RBC)
