Respect

I recently told a friend that he was no longer worthy of my respect. While this statement seems harsh, it is true. However, the point here is if the same standard that a friend was judged by were to be turned on me, would I pass or fail? What makes someone worthy of respect? Morals? Strength of Character? Their Word? Trustworthiness? Kindness? Gentleness? Self-Control... (yes, many of these are Fruits of the Spirit). If I were to test myself, I would fail as well. That realization is difficult to swallow, but necessary. Like a giant pill the doctors give. If you don't suck it up and swallow it you will never improve. The same goes for myself, If I don't take a hard look at my behavior and swallow the truth, I will never improve and become who I say I am (or who I really want to be). The temperament I possess is not glorifying, but rather demeaning to others, harsh and unkind most of the time. While the sweet side is there, it has been suppressed. Spiritually, I have been far from the Lord lately, and the distinct possibility that the two things are linked is becoming obvious. Praying for closeness and a change of heart...