asbc seek devotionals 2025 2 - Flipbook - Page 28
Day 12: R-E-S-P-E-C-T
DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL | ALFRED STREET BAPTIST CHURCH
REV. DR. SHELLEY E. BROWN
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance for understanding
proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.The fear of the Lord is the beginning of
knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
– Proverbs 1:5-7 NIV
Nothing says “Saturday morning in a Black household” more than cleaning up while
listening to old-school jams. That is when I was introduced not only to Gospel music,
but to the gospel of Aretha Franklin. Just like I found out what R-E-S-P-E-C-T meant to
Aretha, let’s find out what love and respect mean to God…
Simply put, To love and respect God means that you listen to God. May you live out love
where you respect and listen to God in totality, as a priority, and with exclusivity. Respect
for the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, so let God impart wisdom during this time
of seeking, fasting, and listening. Give priority to the voice of the Savior; there’s so much
God has been waiting to tell you. May you hold the Lord’s instruction in high regard. Let
Jesus deliver you from anxiety that threatens to overwhelm you. Let Jesus affirm that His
promises are indeed forever.
And let Jesus flood your heart with peace and your soul with joy. God has something
for you here, so lay hold of this chance to declutter your mind and replenish your
soul. Respecting God also means that you seek chances to show love and respect to the
people of God. If you love someone, may you take this time to create a safe space where
you actively listen to what’s going on in their life, in their head, and in their heart. And
remember, we listen, and we don’t judge.
JOURNAL REFLECTIONS
28
When was the last time you sat in the
presence of God to listen in silence without
asking for something in return? When was
the last time you listened to a loved one
without commentary or judgment?
PRAYER
Lord, show me how to respect Your voice in my life in
totality, as a priority, and with exclusivity. Grant me the
wisdom to listen to your instruction, and to love others
by listening without judgement. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
