Often people around me ask why I smile so much and why I do things for others who don’t seem to appreciate the gestures and even take advantage of my kindness. I have to explain to them who is in charge of my life and that I’m not just a lip service believer. I have to obey what the Lord puts into my spirit regardless what it looks like to the natural eye, How about you?
TODAY’S PRAYER
Father, I come to You on behalf of my brothers and sisters in Christ today seeking Your face. We are searching for answers so we can do something about the problems. There is so much turmoil in the world. There have been so many disasters, many beyond man’s control. I pray that You will broaden the minds of the people affected by each incident and open their eyes to see what You want them to learn. And I pray that they will respond in the right way. I know that You sometimes allow pressures in our lives to bring attention to an issue You want us to take care of too. I pray today, that You as our Loving Father will make known anything that stands in the way of fellowship between You and us. We want to turn from any wrongdoing, and “step up to the plate” to do the right thing, no matter how great or how simple it may seem. I praise You for Who You are, for all You do, and for the fellowship we share through prayer. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Let’s eat.
FACE TO FACE
I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. – 2 John 12
It is very easy to send an email to someone in this age of electronic communication because of its convenience. In the business world its called being efficient. However, there are times when nothing but a face-to-face meeting is the appropriate means of communication. We know that verbal skills are a very small portion of communication. Body language, voice tone, and our expressions make up the majority of our overall communication. This can’t be seen through a letter or electronic medium.
John knew that being face to face with those he ministered to was important. And for John, it meant some major trouble to get from one place to another. It wasn’t as simple as getting into a car or hopping onto an airplane. John’s desire and determination to visit and talk face to face reinforces the importance of one-on-one personal communication.
A few years ago I had to confront a business friend of mine about some problems we were having in a deal we where doing together. He lived in another state. The negotiations had stalled to some degree. I could have attempted to solve the problem over the phone. But I realized the serious nature of the issues required a face-to-face meeting. I drove two hours to his office and met with him face to face. It meant all the difference. It demonstrated to my friend I was serious enough about solving the problem to take a day to come see him. It also showed I valued him and he was worth the effort. This resulted in him giving greater emphasis to the issue.
The next time a situation arises that requires more focused communication (especially ministry), consider whether the situation requires a personal visit. You may find this will be the key to resolving issues that otherwise might end in a stalemate and wounded relationships.
Quote of the Day
"Sin forsaken is the best evidence of sin forgiven." ~Anonymous~
WITH HOPE AND FAITH
REV. ELDER G E STERRETT
FOUNDER
GCKRS HELPING HAND FOUNDATION – THE RELATIONSHIP FACTORY