Seeing The Best In Others

Seeing the Best in Others

I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

My friend Carol is an expert at championing others. As the director of a women’s ministry that hosts events for thousands of people each year, she oversees a large advisory group and hundreds of volunteers. In the midst of all the work that entails, she consistently takes the time to recognize the contribution that each person makes.

“I can see you being really good at that role,” she will tell someone when encouraging them to step into a new area. “You are so good at this,” she will say to someone else. “Thank you for the work you are doing!”

Carol’s leadership is effective because, instead of focusing on herself, she focuses on others. She finds the good—and praises it. Carol is one of those people who makes you want to do things for her, not out of obligation or guilt, but because she is so good at cultivating community that you simply want to be a part of it. She actively calls out the skills and talents of others and utilizes them to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I recall one situation in particular where a young woman had experienced some difficulties in her personal life and bowed out of the ministry for a while. When she returned, Carol went out of her way to make sure the woman knew she was loved and accepted despite the ugly circumstances she’d faced in the interim.

“I really want this to be a win for her,” she confided.

One of the greatest gifts we can give a friend is to recognize a characteristic or skill they possess and encourage them to use it. God has called and equipped all of us to do his work and see it to completion, yet it can be hard to have the confidence necessary to try something new. As friends, let us recognize the innate talents others have to accomplish the tasks God has for them to do and encourage each friend to step out with holy confidence.

— Kristin

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Go out of your way to encourage a friend in their gifting, whether by sending an encouraging note or connecting them with an opportunity.