Make the Most of Every Opportunity

Today’s scripture grips my heart every time I read it. Just think about it for a moment: You and I are personal representatives of Christ and should behave as He would in every situation. Jesus came that we might have and enjoy our lives (see John 10:10) and when people see us doing that, it makes them want to know how they can have it also.

But have you ever thought about the fact that you may be the only representative of Jesus that the people around you will ever see? Well, it’s true! So it’s no wonder Paul urges us to be wise in our interactions with others.

If you’re unsure where to begin, here are three simple suggestions to consider when dealing with people—especially those who do not know Christ:

1. Be Encouraging
   You can always start with a smile. A smile can brighten up a moment and help people feel at ease very quickly. You can also say something that will help people feel positive about themselves, even if it’s a simple compliment about what they are wearing or the way they style their hair. They may not remember the exact words you spoke, but they will remember that you made them feel good.
2. Be Stable
   In our world today, negative emotions are visible everywhere. Whether it’s a child throwing a tantrum in a grocery store, a teenager sobbing to a friend in a coffee shop, or someone with road rage, the level of emotional intensity is high. I am sure that many people who seem angry and offended would like to have peace, but they have no idea how to get it.
   
   If you can be the stable person when others are stressed or anxious in your workplace, your neighborhood, your family, or any other group, people will notice. They will pay attention when you can stay calm while everyone else is upset, and it won’t be long before they start asking you why. Once they open the door by asking about why you are so peaceful, you can simply tell them it is because you have Jesus in your life helping you at all times and that He is available to them also.
3. Value People
   Many people today don’t feel special, loved, or valued at all. As Christians, however, we know the opposite is true. Everyone is precious to God. And demonstrating that we value them is one of the best gifts we can give.
   
   There are many simple ways to show people they are important: express interest in the things that interest them; take time to listen and be compassionate when they need to talk about a problem; meet a practical need in their lives; sit with them at lunch; ask how they are doing during a break at work; or show support if they are going through a difficult time. Helping people feel valued does not require a lot of time, money, or effort, but it makes a significant impact.

Finally, I would encourage you to pray and regularly ask God to give you wisdom when dealing with those who don’t know Him, as well as help you make the most of every opportunity you have with them. He dearly loves each one, and you never know when He might use you to make an eternal difference in their lives.

_{Adapted from the book Be Joyful by Joyce Meyer. Copyright 2022 by Joyce Meyer. Published by Hachette Book Group, Inc. All rights reserved.}