Which Way to the “Appreciation Room?”
“Love is patient, love is kind… it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Cor. 13:4-7
Can you remember a time when you were afraid to open your heart, felt distant from others, or even depressed? Should colors characterize joy, have your colors ever lacked in brilliance? If so, we have much in common! Perhaps, we have passed by one another while lounging in the “Depreciation Room.” Vibrant colors are never seen in the Depreciation Room. Similarly, only shades of grey and black are prominent there. Even after leaving this room, the dim tones hover in my mind’s eye. Tragically, the muted hues significantly hinder my attitude, my relationships, and even have a way of stealing my joy.
Dark-colored wallpaper is affixed to the walls in the Depreciation Room and consists of unending, brash words! Many words depict the things that irritate me about my spouse, my children, and my friends. Oh, the shock I felt at noticing that some of the stenciled words were actually the same thoughts I had about the people who had hurt me! This room is unlike any other room I have visited because it has no “Visitors.” Much like a prison, once you’re in, you’re really in even if you leave the room. It’s almost as if the written words long to flee the room. Often and sadly, they attach themselves to its guests as they depart. This room boasts of the somber ambiance which makes it easy for visitors to rehearse hurtful words spoken over them, unmet expectations, and even the failures of themselves and others.
Recently, Jesus stood at the door of the Depreciation Room holding out His hand to me while carrying a sign in His other hand that read, “Exit This Way!” See, I have had a lifelong habit of not believing the best about people. Consequently, I have been a prisoner of the Depreciation Room for many years. Can you relate to my habit of ruminating on frustrations and hurts in the Depreciation Room? If so, thank you for your honesty, I am honored to walk beside you! The good news for both of us is that God has provided an escape route from the gravitational pull towards the Depreciation Room in Philippians 4:8-9. This passage gives us entrance to the “Appreciation Room,” but the choice is ours to make – will we take His lead and let our thoughts be filled with His truth?
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
Surely, we will see each other soon in the brilliantly-colored and hope-filled Appreciation Room. Recently, I had a glimpse of this room and was astounded at its breathtaking decor! On the apple-green wall, I read truthful and strong words that expressed what Jesus thinks about me and the loved ones He’s given me. Penned on the peaceful, ocean blue wall were beautiful and encouraging words portraying some of His plans for me. I cannot wait for you to see what He has inscribed on the walls for you! Next time we see each other in the Appreciation Room, I look forward to greeting you and together giving thanks to the One who provided a way of escape from the Depreciation Room!
Mind if I pray?
“Oh, Jesus, we are desperate for Your strength to lay down our habit of lingering in the Depreciation Room. Please pour out Your grace, thereby strengthening us to think about ourselves and others in a way that is truthful and pleasing to You. Thank You that Your love for us is never-ending; and therefore, You are faithful to bring to our attention that which keeps us from You, the loved ones You have given us, and that which You created us for. To You be the glory for the work that You began in us and have promised to complete!”
Conversation Starters – Click on “Leave a Reply” below to start a conversation
1. What did your escape route from the “Depreciation Room” look like? How has Jesus helped you walk away from depreciating thinking?
2. Are you struggling to escape the negative thinking affiliated with the “Depreciation Room?” If so, how can I pray for you?
Sources: Kendrick, Stephen & Alex, The Love Dare.
New Testament, NIV Translation
