Think about being Inspirational
We can choose what we say before we say it and we need to apply the "inspirational" test to make sure we do not stray into the territory of "boring" talk. Sometimes we get stuck on subjects of the weather, sport, politics or TV – but it is good to lift the level of our talk to cover the important things in life.
We all remember our most inspirational teachers and mentors, the most inspirational politicians and business leaders. Jesus spend three years teaching and he was recognised by the inspirational nature of his teaching and interpretation of the bible.
He taught us to think "outside the box" and his teaching was often at odds with the conventional wisdom of the time (and indeed our time).
Here's an example:
"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.' But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5: 43-48 [NIV]
When we are in conversation, sometimes the easiest thing is to agree with the person we are speaking with – even if we don't actually believe the same – or perhaps the tide of a conversation has moved towards criticism or character assassination. Why not try to speak inspirationally – to turn around the thinking in the way Jesus did? It isn't easy, but it can have surprising results. Sometimes we just need to be reminded of what is right!
Dave MacLellan | |
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