Doesn't Anyone Care?

I feel used. What woman hasn’t felt used? We are always doing things for others but seldom receive a thank you. Too often there is a thoughtless demand that we do more or do something better. Doesn’t anyone realize what we do? Doesn’t anyone see that we go well above and beyond what is necessary? Does anyone care that we are pouring out our hearts serving them?

That is the way we feel too often. This sense of lack of appreciation happens to good employees in the work place. This happens among both extended family members and with family members who live in our homes. And it happens in friendships—even Christian friendships.

So, why are we gripping about being used? Aren’t we called to be servants?

The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Matthew 23:11-12 NIV

So if I feel used, how do my family, acquaintances, and friends feel? Do they feel used by me? Am I projecting an attitude of expectation of their service to me? That should not be.

What does the Bible say I should do?

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds…let us encourage one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24 and 25b NIV

Lord, create in me an acute awareness of those who feel used by me. Show me ways to affirm them. More than that, Lord, show me those to whom I am in contact that need to feel appreciated. Make me aware of how I can most effectively encourage them.