Series: Committed 
Message: Appreciation
Preacher: Japhet De Oliveira

Refresh: Open with prayer. Read of listen to Psalm 51:1-4.

Read: John 15:1-17 - As you re-read for the final time this week in the ESV translation, what did you discover new about God’s character?

Reflect:  Obedience. Not a friendly word to many people simply because of the negative association with legalism and control. Yet, if we allowed the text, if allowed the voice of Jesus to be clear, we would be more open and receptive to obedience. For Jesus, He wants us to understand that keeping His commandments and loving people, is a response to all that He has done in us. That is why He calls us His friends and not servants. Jesus is nudging us towards the relationship He started with us back in the garden of Eden. 
When we have Jesus abide in us, we are changed. Those closest and those furtherest away are able to appreciate the difference. We are recognized as disciples of Jesus. All of this is demonstrated through love. 
This is impossible by our own decision. The love for people we like is easy. The love for people who harm us is practically impossible, unless it is driven by Jesus. When you reflect on this, you will grow in your appreciation of all that Jesus has and is doing. You will also want to consider new ways to show the commitment to appreciation in your life.

Recalibrate: ​ 

1. How do you grow your commitment to appreciation?
2. Who needs to know they are appreciated?

Respond: Pray for someone who has hurt you.

Research: Read one of the books or commentaries for this series on John 15:1-17.