Philippians 2:4 (NLT) “Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”
In a world of self-love where people look to nothing but themselves, it is important that Christians become the difference the world lacks. We must not look to our interests alone but also consider those of others; and being selfless must be developed as a key character of the believer.
Some people are natural caregivers and are always seen taking the burden of others. Others, however, need to develop this character as a component of the fruit of the Spirit. Scripture says in 1 Thessalonians 3:12, “May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.” When we take genuine interest in others, we find ourselves solving the problems of others by being that listening ear, supporting shoulder, and the helping hand. The New Testament recounts the story of power and glory in the Book of Acts and how no one was needy in the Early Church because they took interest in others.
There are ways to develop interest in others:
#1. Learn to call people by their names. Dale Carnegie explains it best when he says, “A person’s name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” It is the one way we can easily get someone’s attention. It is a sign of courtesy and a way of recognizing them. When someone remembers our name after meeting us, we feel respected and more important.
#2. Find out the dream of others. As an employer, there is a possibility of you getting fixated on the responsibilities of your workers that you can easily forget they have a life outside work. Ask about what their dreams, plans and aspirations are. Your employees dedicate about 10 hours of their lives to you daily. Asking about their personal lives will go a long way to affirm that you don't just see them as a means to make money but as a family.
#3. Become good at making small talk. Listen and act interested, and you will think of things to say. Asking questions helps. After all, people are excited when you ask for their opinion. Talk about the things that interest them.
Precious one, we can make the world a better place if we start talking to each other instead of talking behind each other. Decide in your heart to develop a genuine interest in the lives of others and not just see them as a means to an end.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to grow in love for the people around me. Teach me to bear with them in their difficult times in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Related Topics : Gossip, Charles Agyinasare,
