Connecting

May 2008

“You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others.” II Timothy 2:1-2

Surely Paul’s relationship with Timothy was special, and the guidance he gave was both timely and useful, however I am inclined to believe that it didn’t “just happen”. Building relationships that can weather the strong winds and gigantic waves encountered in “discipling” another requires more attention. Consider the following as you present yourself to one or many:
1. Connect with yourself. Know who you are and have confidence in yourself to connect with others. Your life, work, and significance should flow out of who you are, the person God created you to be as opposed to what you do.

2. Communicate with Openness and Sincerity. Bill Walsh, legendary National Football League coach once said, “Nothing is more effective than sincere, accurate praise, and nothing is more lame than a cookie-cutter compliment.” People will not always remember what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel.

3. Know Your Audience. Learn people’s names (and speak to them using their names), find out about their histories, and ask about their dreams. Speak to what they care about. One of the greatest gifts a person can give to anyone is the gift of attention.

4. Live Your Message. Practice what you preach. That’s where credibility is birthed. Mother Teresa once said, “Go out into the world and love the people you meet. Let your presence light new light in the hearts of people. “Remember, we control fifty percent of a relationship, but we influence one hundred percent of it.

5. Go to Where They Are. Overcome any barriers to communication, adapt to others. Don’t expect them to adapt to you.

6. Focus on Them, Not on Yourself. The number one problem of ineffective leaders, speakers, and facilitators is that they focus on themselves.

7. Believe in Them. It’s one thing to communicate to people because you believe you have something of value to say. It’s another to communicate with people because you believe they have value. Be both a champion and friend to those you lead, because champions help us find value in ourselves and friends don’t leave or forsake us.

8. Offer Direction and Hope. Napoleon Bonaparte once said, “Leaders are dealers in hope.” The “world” is full of advice, often the wrong kind. Be an encourager, a “compass” in a person’s life. Help everyone find value in themselves and hope in God’s future for them. Remember, from hope springs the courage to take the next step in life.

As you approach today, consider the following question in your reflections.  In the 28th Chapter of the book of Matthew, Jesus gives us the basis of our mission in life when he tells us to make disciples. Who are you discipling?
God bless you in all His riches in glory, but especially in His grace, mercy, and love.

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