Everyone has their own warts, imperfections that prevent people from achieving peace and prosperity. For me, my greatest weakness is the inability to slow down to enjoy, indulge or relax by conversing with co-workers, family and neighbors. Thus, by the end of the day or week, I often find myself starving for conversation.
While a youth pastor in Indiana, I spent 50 hours a week minimum interacting with youth, parents and church staff. Since my job description involved investing in relationships, I spent countless hours reclining, sharing and walking with a wide range of personalities. Whether I was tubing in a lake, attending a sporting event or sitting on a dock having an impromptu Bible Study, these were my best years, bringing out my God given talents.
Now twenty years later, its time to reinvent myself as I hunger and thirst for meaningful conversations. Starting with the beatitudes appears to be a logical starting place, Matthew 5:3-12, encouraging individuals to be listeners first. From here, the apostle Paul provides good advice in Colossians 4:2-5, adding flavor to the conversations you encounter. Perhaps, by applying these biblical principles, I will be content, satisfied by future conversations.
What advice do you have for others searching for fulfilling conversations?
by Jay Mankus
