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Scripture References:
• 1 Timothy 1:7
• Psalm 138:8
• John 12:24-26
• Luke 1:30
• Genesis 30:27
• 3 John 2
Let me share with you a scenario that is common among single Christian men and woman.
Every week, Michael sees Sarah’s beautiful, welcoming smile, and hears her friendly
voice, “Hey, Michael!” Yet he responds in a very flat, business-like monotone voice,
“Hello. How are you, Sarah?” She slows her pace, hoping to have a few moments to
chat. In deep concentration, Michael continues to briskly walk on as though he doesn’t
notice how pretty she looks in her blue sundress, but he does notice. Michael,
who spends the rest of his afternoon wondering if he should’ve said something else
to Sarah, looks forward to seeing her again. This routine has gone on for a while,
and although Sarah is genuinely interested in Michael, she has grown somewhat befuddled
that he seems unable to get beyond a simple hello. Sound familiar?
As a pastor of a large congregation, I marvel at the number of singles who, for
whatever reason, can’t seem to hook up and get to know each other. I remember
asking a group of men if they wanted to get married or meet a nice girl, and almost
every man emphatically said, “Yes.” I guess they thought I had some deep, spiritual
revelation on the subject. However, my next question was, What are you waiting on?
Let me share with you some simple truths that will help you add perspective. There
are 6 billion people on the planet, and we were meant to connect with one another.
Don’t make things too intense or difficult by being overly analytical because of
fear and other hang-ups. Simply put guys, make sure you have the confidence to ask
a girl out on a no-pressure outing where you can enjoy a friendly ‘getting to know
you’ conversation. Ladies, make sure you wear a smile, and you’re approachable for
that would be encounter. Purpose to do something! Don’t sit on
the sidelines of life. If fear is an issue for you, take the pressure off by realizing
that you may not be approaching the one. Maybe you’re just getting an opportunity
to get to know another person.
When it comes to meeting new people, don’t allow yourself to be swept away by outward
appearances. When you build a person up to a romanticized ideal in your mind, it
creates pressure and hinders your ability to get to know them. Focus on who they
are and what you have in common. Cultivating a friendship is the best way to really
get to know someone. This way, whether the relationship progresses or not, at least
you’ve made a good friend.
This Valentine’s Day, don’t expend valuable time focusing on unfulfilled romance.
Enjoy your life and celebrate the people in it. If possible, take the initiative
to meet new people and expect God to help you seize every opportunity.
— Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
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