Something about this current stage of life has me thinking about the different ways one reaches others, whether it be through a hug, a poem, a kind (or prophetic) word, or a gift. The manner in which a person is thoughtfully respected and honored is an extremely important one to consider, especially when you balance that with what you know about the person's heart and preferred love language(s).
I assume too often that people feel cared for in the exact same ways that I do. But obviously that's a mistake since everyone receives differently. What will really speak to someone is if I lay down my own opinions about and preferences for the look of love, and just do or say what I know will truly touch that person's heart, in the way they know they're unique and beautiful.
Also, as strange as it may sound, withholding beliefs and opinions at certain times is another way to give. I've had this occur several times in the past few months, and it has honestly surprised me how wonderful it can be to not only simply avoid unnecessary confrontation and argumentation, but really exercise wisdom and build unity by refraining from popping off by making sure everyone around knows full well exactly how I disagree with something they just said or what they hold fast to. While they may not know explicitly that you just granted them respect and love, it will ultimately result in a multitude of moments of peace and deep fellowship, and through those they will experience edification and a substantial understanding of their own acceptance.
I'd like to believe I've been given more wisdom, but it hardly ever seems like what I have is enough. Of course, I feel wiser than in years past, but maybe it's merely experience and getting older that are helping me make better decisions in relationships. Or maybe God really has been graciously giving me more and more wisdom each time I ask for it. I definitely want even more though, for every moment is an opportunity to reach someone, to be reached, or to just simply receive love from Him.
With all the people I come across daily, as well as all of those whose paths I'll cross later, there's no doubt in my mind that I'll need to keep growing in maturation of the spirit and wisdom/understanding of the mind and sincere compassion of the heart in order to have any sort of positive effect on them. Whatever I can glean; whatever I can absorb; whatever I can be a conduit for; whatever I can learn in Spirit and Truth-- those I desire to have, and those I wish to give in the most opportune times to the right person in the perfect way.
Delight isn't hard to come by when your mindset is one of utter gratitude. When you can thank Abba for all of the amazing provisions He gives, Jesus for the glorious redemption He brings, and the Holy Spirit for the unmatched power and understanding He bestows, then your eyes are pointed correctly and your heart, full of grace, is ready to overflow in thankfulness and subsequent generosity to those God calls you to give to. And those "Thank you, God's" are only the tipping point. Going within and beyond those three to delve deeper and broader into the unending grace and mercy and extreme love of our Lord only serves as a momentum-builder to greater and grander things.
I'm ready for more. And I believe I know where to begin:
Let us give thanks.
Grace and peace, yall. Be blessed!
:)
