“Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:35 NLT)
“Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” (Matthew 6:21 NLT)
“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT)
I turned on the radio the other day and the person speaking said, “Love equals attention, affection, and affirmation.” My immediate response was, “Wow, I’ve got to share that!” This is so true! Let’s chat a bit…
…”Attention”
I’ve heard it said that “to a kid love is spelled “t – i – m – e.” I would add, “f – o – c – u – s.” Just a couple of days ago Savannah (my granddaughter) got upset with me for spending too much time doing “my stuff” and not taking enough time to be with her. She said, “Papa it doesn’t matter how much time you have you will just find more stuff to do and still not have time for me.” What an eye opener. Time to rethink how I spend my time! Love equals attention.
…”Affection”
The Bible says that your heart will gravitate toward whatever you treasure. Our affection belongs to our treasures. Have you ever listened to yourself describe a prized possession? How about that pet that you love so much? We just adopted the kitten that Savannah rescued and “BigMac” has already weaseled his way into my heart. I need to constantly keep watch over what draws the attention of my heart. The acronym for “JOY” is helpful: Jesus, Others, Self.
…”Affirmation”
This one is huge! Do you remember Thumper, the bunny in the classic Disney animation “Bambi?” His claim to fame was his statement that has been repeated by multiple parents through the years, “If ya can’t say somethin’ nice don’t say nothin’ at all.”
Affirming words are so important in the lives of those around us. Affirming actions are also beneficial. Recognizing what someone has done right, or done well, goes a long way in affirming them. This in turn builds self confidence, and self affirmation. Don’t forget the significance of an affirming touch. A simple pat on the back is just what is needed at times. When my kids were young, and they would ask for something, we had a little ritual that we would follow. They would make a request to which I would respond, “What’ll it cost you?” They knew the answer so they would immediately say, “A hug, a kiss, and a handshake.” This little game went far in affirming my love for them.
Let this simple message sink in as we practice…
…Eric’s Life Lesson # 174: “Love equals attention, affection, and affirmation.”