- THINK BENEATH. Don't speak quickly. Think about the battle between religion and Christianity. Is this person more aware of their desire for blessing (world) or their desire for God?
- THINK VISION. Reflect on how this person would be talking about their life if they wanted God more than the blessings. What would it mean for this person's life to not be wasted?
- THINK PASSION. Are you self-obsessed? Feel it and confess it to God. Let brokenness put you in touch with the true desire to love this person.
- THINK STORY. Listen with curiousity to hear the hidden story of fear and shame. Listen to hear shaping events that directed this person away from God. Asks lots of questions. Be stingy with advice.
- THINK MOVEMENT. Pay close attention to any movement toward brokenness. Help them to put words to repentance. Encourage them into specific acts of trust. Share your confidence in God.
Think through how you will...
- Lead others by listening with my ears not my mouth.
The next time someone you love shares a struggle, lead with your ears. Lean in and say little. Listen for evidence of the 'old way' - performance and pride. Discern where God may lead the conversation into a 'new way' - a grace filled life.
- Be curious beyond the normal range or level. A curious person is eager to investigate.
When I ask them questions, don't meddle. Don't pry or push. Be curious and caring. Discuss what you see - fear, resentment, self-protection, hope, and brokenness.
- Ask the Lord to help you recognize your next opportunity to speak words of Truth to a hurting friend.
As you listen, reflect on your motives. Am I trying to impress? Am I afraid I won't?
Something is going on in {FRIEND} that's going in all of us. I wonder what the real battle is?
"Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires... For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live."
ROMANS 8:5,13
THINK BENEATH.
