Lesson 114 — Connecting with Someone in Need
Every person we encounter has been created for eternity, and after the death of their body will be transformed into either one of the most beautiful beings imaginable or one of the most grotesque, depending upon whether they have ended up in heaven or hell. Our manner of interacting with each person can have an influence, even a small one, on where they spend their eternity. God places a high value on each person and sent His Son to die for Him. And so no one is unworthy of our attention and concern, regardless of their appearance, mannerisms, and station in life.
Give the fallen, sinful nature in each of us it is tempting to relate to others on the basis of what they can do for us, which can lead to being manipulative and/or taking advantage. We all need to be vigilant and guard against being this way even subconsciously. It’s God’s calling for each of us to genuinely desire the good for each individual, and to seek how to best relate to him/her in whatever situation God places us in with that person. We can best do this by fostering a welcoming and inviting attitude.
The person behind the register in a foul mood may have no one in his/her life and would welcome someone to connect with. We can accomplish this with God’s grace, helping us more each day to display the nature of Jesus and God’s kingdom in the way we live and treat others, proclaiming God’s message of salvation at any opportunity that is presented. The consequence of someone not accepting God’s only provision for salvation is hell itself, eternal separation from God. By taking the time to connect with someone, even briefly, in some meaningful way, we can plant a seed that might lead to the salvation of a soul.