Treasure

The basic definition of treasure is: something of value. Appreciation can be simply defined as: gratitude. The word protect can be summed up as meaning: keep from insult, harm, or loss.  The definition for admire means: regard with respect. 

Now, take a moment and think about which of your existing character traits you most admire. Is it taking longer than you would have expected?  After asking this question in several group sessions, people are always surprised how difficult it is to say something positive about themselves. Even those who seem to place themselves in high regard.
If you know that God loves you, you also know that you are His treasure. We are to love our neighbor as much as we love ourselves; so loving ourselves is also expected. Our character plays the same role as the 'root word' when defining who we are. Our combined traits work together to better fulfill God's purpose for our lives.

Once we accept that we are indeed God's treasure, we can show our appreciation by admiring our gifts enough to protect not just our physical body, but all that makes us who we are.

Let us say that patience is one of your most admirable traits. You also happen to work in a stressful, almost hostile environment. One of your co-workers has made pushing your buttons the highlight of his/her day. You always end up responding to their drama in a way that makes you angry and disappointed in yourself. Each time we allow a person to 'push our buttons' we have given them the power to take away a part of who we are. Learn how to shield your buttons. Protect your gift of patience that certainly did not come easy. Admire your patience enough to keep it away from harm, insult or loss. For me, I just look directly into the eyes of the person, give them a slight smile that instantly removes their perceived control of the situation,, and walk away. Find what works for you. It really is okay not to have the last word..

We live in a world where any 'treasure' is always at high risk. Look beneath your surface, find your treasures, and always keep them safe.....