I have given a lot of thought in recent years about my conversations with people. This includes family, friends, and new acquaintances in person and on the phone. Listening to these people as to their jobs, family life, interests, and concerns is a goal of my focus in talking to people. It is a challenge for all of us to direct conversations about the person we are talking to rather than ourselves. I intentionally try to keep my thoughts about God’s purpose during a conversation. I make an effort to hear what the other person is saying or “not saying”. Perhaps they need to say something good about themselves that I can acknowledge and say for them.
There is a lot of hopelessness and fear in peoples’ minds today which is expressed in conversations. After a talk with someone, it is my desire that there has been an opportunity for me to speak of my hope in Christ and they see themselves as a person of value.
1 Peter 3:15 gives us good directions about CONVERSATIONS.
“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope you have. But do this with gentleness and respect”