Other Centered

Posted on July 6, 2017 by Graeme Wilson in Victory Call


Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:4

I recently shared a post with you titled “Pass It On.” It spoke of how our trials and tribulations and the comforts we received from the Lord are meant to be shared with others. A few days later, I received a devotional that added some additional light on the subject of coming alongside others. What I gleaned was this sentence – “It’s not about you” This is a good warning for us as we share and seek to give comfort to others who are in similar circumstances. As I gave it more thought, I wanted to share some ideas that can continue to help us as we become centered on the needs of others.

  1. Because it isn’t all about me, I don’t have to share my entire story. There may be parts that are not shared due to confidences. Maybe names need to be omitted or changed to protect those involved.
  2. Because it isn’t all about me, I don’t have all the answers. Only the Lord knows what needs to be done in each circumstance. I don’t have to tell someone else to do A, B or C: My place is to comfort, not to give advice. I need to be careful that the way I handle a situation does not mean that one size fits all.
  3. Because it’s not all about me, I need to listen more than I talk. Enough said.
  4. Because it’s not all about me, I can rejoice with others. If my prayers have not yet been answered, how do I react to someone whose prayers were?
  5. Because it’s not all about me, I can also cry with others. I must remain sensitive to remember what it was like in the battle before the victory was ever won.
  6. Because it’s not all about me, am I willing to be inconvenienced by someone who has a need?
  7. Because it’s not all about me, am I willing to come alongside someone else for the long term? I wish everything got solved in 30 minutes but that only happens on TV shows.

I’m sure you can add to this list. In today’s culture there is a never-ending supply of hurts that you and I experience. I trust we can be used by the Lord to bring His comfort to others. The devotional I read ended with this:
“As you go about your business today, look around, God may have someone for you to minister to today. In fact I guarantee it. Often He is just looking for a willing accomplice.” *  I like that.. a willing accomplice. Are you and I willing to be an accomplice to minister to others on Jesus behalf?
Blessings,
Kathy
*Called to Business, Monday Memo -June 25th
Kathy Withers is on staff at America’s Keswick and serves as Director of Partner Care. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 30 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local Church and teaches a Bible Study for women. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God’s Word.
 
 
 

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