A Little Nudge

The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.

Years ago, a speaker at a conference I attended told a story of harboring a vision for ministry for many years before she pursued it. The catalyst for setting her plan in motion was confessing her dream to a mentor and hearing them respond with the affirming words, “I can see that potential in you.”

Our friends Andrew and Samantha are like that for my husband and me, offering encouragement and expressing their confidence that we can and should pursue God’s path for our lives.

For instance, when we were thinking about ways to get involved in our local church, Andrew challenged us to consider how we could best serve the community rather than pursuing what felt easy or convenient.

“You’re not going to be a greeter,” he told Tim, his words frank but kind. “You need to work with kids.”

More than a decade later, Tim still serves in the four-and-five-year-old room, connecting with children—including many who don’t have a father figure—coloring or playing with trucks alongside them. He loves it.

Another year, when Tim said he wasn’t leading a small group because it was a busy season, Andrew reminded him that as a leader, he needed to remain involved no matter the title he bore. The nudge was exactly what Tim needed to start a barbecue group that still ranks among his favorites.

What a gift it is when a friend can see our potential and takes the time to encourage us to pursue it; how grateful I am for friends who challenge us to seek out God’s best. How many life-changing interactions might we have missed over the years without those nudges from our friends?

Each of us has a purpose and is uniquely positioned to fulfill the Lord’s calling, but sometimes we need encouragement from someone else to see it. You and I can do the same by calling out the potential we see in others. As Romans 11:29 reminds us, the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable. We honor someone in their God-given calling when we gently encourage them in their giftings. Telling someone we see their potential may be just the boost they need to fulfill a greater purpose—God’s purpose.

Kristin

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Who can you encourage by seeing their potential and gently nudging them to pursue it?