We love to discuss more than we like to decide.
We can complain, whine, and even give a good argument but when confronted with our own point of power, we grow silent. It is hard to make a decision. It is much easier to complain. Maybe you have been in a committee meeting or other type of meeting where most of the time was spent on discussion of the problem, and very little time on the solution.
Jesus knew the ease of complaining and the struggle of decision-making. He would solve this issue by empowering people by asking them a question. Jesus’ objective was to get to their heart, not just to an answer. Take for example the story found in John, chapter 5, of the man who had been paralyzed for 38 years. This man had been laying by the pool of Bethesda with other lame, blind and disabled people. Manuscripts have said people waited for the moving of the waters because from time to time an angel of the Lord would come down and stir up the water. The first one into the pool after such disturbance would be cured of whatever disease they had.
One day, Jesus is led to this invalid and found out he had been in this condition, lying by the pool. He had tried to get to the healing waters, but being pushed aside and stepped on, never making it in time, he had given up all hope. Jesus asked him, “Do you want to get well?” The invalid replies by complaining and wants to discuss the problems, instead of giving Jesus a decision. Why didn’t the man answer Jesus with a resounding, “YES?” Had he spent so much time comparing himself to others who were getting healed, or complaining about how people were treating him and they were the problem he wasn’t well?
I wonder how many opportunities we all have missed because of discussion overwhelming the decision. Or like the lame man, who was stuck in complaining and not decision-making. And was that because he was more fearful of being “well” than being “sick?”
Questions can be very powerful! It is how Jesus led and mentored. But so is the art of listening. When you read the Bible, keep this in mind. See how many times Jesus asked questions, and how He listened to the responses. These two skills are a catalyst for life change.
As followers of Jesus, we are to serve one another. Leading and discipling are means of building up the Kingdom, which we are all called to do. Choose to Soar has two Encounter Weekends coming up at the beginning of the year that will equip and empower you to do these things. January 2023 is our Lead with Passion Encounter Weekend, and February 2023, is our Mentor and Coach like Jesus Encounter Weekend. Every woman has influence, and every woman should have a mentor and be a mentor. At least that is what the Bible says (Titus 2-Deuteronomy 6, Proverbs 27, Psalm 71).
Come join us for a life-changing weekend. www.choosetosoar.com
Lord, raise the women up to be Kingdom contributors and not just consumers. May our efforts glorify you and women are empowered to be equipped to strengthen their families, friends, and those You put in their path. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
