Look for the Good

Looking for the good isn't just limited to the good in life. More importantly, it's the good in people. However, you want to develop the skill and habit of looking for the good in ALL things. It takes time as any habit does to develop, but it's worth the effort! 

In previous posts, I've said over and over how much I love and care for other people, and it's the honest to God truth. Obviously it's because of Jesus, but I had to put in the effort as well. Aside from that, the ability was developed as a result of my life experiences which have not only softened my heart, but greatly grown my level of grace, mercy, empathy, and compassion for others. In yesterday's post I spoke about being refined by the fire and in that refining came the qualities of my character. 

Not everyone is easy to love and I've had my fair share of challenges, but there is something good in everyone. As I have also said before, you never know what someone else is going through, so be kind! Be aware of your surroundings, learn to read the room, and develop some level of sensitivity. Too many are quick to judge and stay stuck in their own opinions, beliefs, and ultimately themselves. A better way than judging people is to look for the good in them. If you look hard enough and long enough, you ought to be able to find some good in every person. God has called us to love others and in doing so, learn to bring out the best in people not criticize the bad. When I have back slid in my life, I got used to being judged harshly and criticized. That has NEVER helped anyone! People can change, so give them the room to and assistance if you're able to offer some. You can't do that if you're lacking humility and consumed by a judgmental spirit. Encourage their good traits and ignore the bad. People are not converted by criticism. 

 There must be a design for the world in the mind of God. His design is for universal fellowship and unity under the fatherhood of God. If you want to live out His design, it's all in His Word and is found in the guidance He provides through prayer and meditation. I simply ask God to put people in my path every day that I can help, bless, encourage, or show love to. Love really does conquer all things and all the things I have discussed is wrapped in love! If you want to be an advocate for change and be used as a vessel, learn to get out of self and into the mind of God. It won't just transform you but the world around you. So, my challenge to you is to look inside yourself, see where you need to make adjustments personally, and look for opportunities to sew seeds of greatness, love, and encouragement.