Jesus and conversations – we find He is our perfect example of how to engage with others. Because Jesus asked questions, creating connection and fellowship.
Sometimes I can be self-conscious, shy, or not even know what to say when I am around people I don’t know. Sometimes I can be judgmental. But as I intentionally look for opportunities to connect with people, I am having beautiful conversations. It leads me to listen to others as they share, and me sharing with them. To look past appearances into the heart.
The other day I ran into a lady on the corner where I live. She asked me where the walking path went. Instead of just pointing, I invited her to walk with me. She had moved to the neighborhood recently, and after we walked and talked a good mile, we found out we were both Christians. She said, “God put you here for me to meet today.” And I felt the same. As we walked the about three-mile track through the woods, past the pond overlooking the golf course, geese stammered out of our way, birds flitted, the fresh pine invigorating, and straw crunched as our feet touched the ground.
Then a conversation at a party led to the new church my husband and I are attending. It was a beautiful day as the children ran around, dogs chasing on the green spread of grass surrounded by tall trees. Amongst the chatter and laughter, a young woman sat near me. Although I wasn’t sure what we had in common, I soon discovered we had much in common. We both love Jesus – there was so much proclaiming of God at this backyard party.
The tongue has the power of life and death –
While reading Rachael Adam’s new book, “A Little Goes a Long Way,” her chapter of Day 23, “A Little Conversation,” resonated with me. Especially after these experiences. Proverbs 18:21 says, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” 1
In Rachael’s devotion, she writes about how Jesus initiated conversations in various locations. Many of these interactions took place outside religious settings – in the home and the workplace. We can look to Jesus to find an example of how to have a little conversation. Jesus asked questions, creating connection and fellowship.2 Although we may question whether our little conversations add up to much or if it is worth the effort to step outside our comfort zones, we can rest assured every little conversation adds up in God’s kingdom. We were made for love, connection, friendship, and fellowship.
I have been thinking lately that a revival is happening in our backyards, corners, walking paths, doctors’ offices, and grocery stores. There seem to be so many people around me in love with God. And I would not have known this had it not all started with little conversations.
God takes our little and turns it into His Glory. Just think about that. Rather than shying away from coworkers, someone at church, a party, or even when walking, engage.
Reflection:
- We can start with a smile and a hello and see what God has in mind when somebody new happens along our path. In what way will you try reaching out to someone you do not know?
- Are you an introvert, shy, or judgmental? How does Proverbs 18:21’s message resonate with you?
- Have you thought about how Jesus’s ministry revolved around conversations in everyday places of life? How does Jesus’s example of connecting and fellowship inspire you?
References:
- Proverbs 18:21
- Rachael Adams, A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life (BroadStreet Publishing, 2022), 75
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Fabulous post Deborah! I find myself engaged in conversations such as these often, some I initiate, others I am invited into, but all are orchestrated by Christ. Isn’t it amazing how a few simple words uttered with kindness can ignite a friendship?
It’s not always easy for me as a hopeless introvert, who prefers “alone” time, but definitely worthwhile. I think God uses our uniqueness in many ways.
I have long been inspired by the way Jesus engaged people of all types in easy conversation that transformed lives-oh to have that gift!
Donna, thank you for commenting. I, too, can be shy or feel awkward. But it is incredible that with Jesus’ lead, we can step out of our comfort zones.? I will continue to look for opportunities to initiate conversations.
“”Jesus asked questions, creating connection and fellowship.” May we keep entering conversations, even when we feel uncomfortable, even when it is awkward.
Yes, Joanne, I pray that I take all the opportunities that God presents. Thank you for visiting.
The perfect post for me to read as I realize I don’t strike up conversations often enough. I’m trying to be more intentional about chatting with the clerks when I check out, and looking people in the eye and asking polite questions.
Anita, this is a new one for me too. And God is blessing me with so many wonderful conversations!
Good post, Deborah. I tend to be in my own little zone when I’m out. If I stop and think about starting a conversation with a stranger, it’s hard. But once I get started, it usually goes okay and I am glad I did.
Barbara, thanks for sharing. It can be so hard to start conversations with strangers. I think it is essential to ask the Holy Spirit for discernment to help us know when and how to. ?
I appreciate this encouragement to reach outside our comfort zone, Deborah. Yesterday, my husband and I felt drawn to introduce ourselves to someone at church. We discovered he and his mom are refugees and French is their native tongue. My husband sent him a contact of another local French speaker and plans on meeting our new acquaintance in the near future. Hopefully, he left feeling encouraged!
Lisa, it is amazing who God outs in our world. He knows who we need to encourage and when we also need encouragement.?
Debbie, this is so true. I love how you weaved your stories into this lesson that Jesus is our perfect example of how to have conversations with others. And this>”God takes our little and turns it into His Glory. ” Indeed he sure does.
Thank you for sharing this with Sweet Tea & Friends this month sweet friend.
Paula, thank you visiting and hosting at Sweet Tea & Friends! Knowing that God uses our little is hopeful!
Joanne, thank you for sharing?