Tuesday, March 3, 2015

To Advise Or Not


Jesus said, “Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”

Matthew 7:6

Sometimes it is better if we keep our mouths shut.  For me, it seems almost cruel not to offer advice when I see someone struggling with a problem for which I know of a solution.  However, I have on several occasions been told “mind your own business,” and therefore, I am not so free with advice to those individuals. 

Yes, it is difficult for me to watch people who I care about struggle over problems for which there are easier solutions than that which they have chosen to pursue.  There is also the possibility that what I think is a problem they do not consider a problem. 

I am working hard on my approach to people who I perceive to be in a struggle.   I ask, “So, how is it going?”  And, wait to see what they say.  If they say “O.K.” then I say no more about it and pursue small talk and try to wedge in some encouraging words.   If they say, “Winter is coming and my kids have no coats,” then it is open season.

I trust God to direct me to do His will.

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