Daily Power #52

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other. (1 Peter 4:8 NLT)

My teenage daughters will invite friends over, and they’ll all be so excited as they’re pouring into the house, chattering and laughing together. They head straight for some comfy room where they can all lounge around in big chairs or on the couch. They’ll all sit down by each other—some of them even leaning against each other—and they’ll each stare intently at their own tiny screens. They’re alone together! A teenage girl doesn’t think anything of sending a text to her friend who’s sitting right next to her!

We adults are no better. We’ve either seen, or if we’re honest, been, that family in a restaurant with each member glued to their phone or tablet—texting, gaming, emailing, surfing, whatever. We’re losing the ability to relate to one another in natural ways.

Being physically present is important. But if you’re doing it just so you can check some box and say, “Well, I tried. I met with them, but it felt awkward. I guess I’m not really a people person,” then I can guarantee you it’s not going to make a difference in their life—or yours. Yes, you should be physically present with people. But you should be emotionally engaged too. Don’t just be “present”; be all there.

Engage deeply spiritually. Go all in. Make sure that the person you’re in the room with is the most important person in the world when you’re together. Show them the same kind of love and attention God lavishes on you.

Power Lift

Father, allow me to focus on the hearts of the people around me. Help me to be fully present, showing them how much you love them by my concern and attentive spirit.