All to Him I Owe

Many people think that a good disciple maker has to be a person who is good at talking. But most good disciple makers are good at making disciples, because they are good at listening with an ear that enables them to discern a person’s heart. They don’t just listen to the words that are used. They listen with eyes that observe the non-verbal clues as well. They take what they hear and what they observe and discern the heart.

Those who teach martial arts often teach a skill called “the ability of soft eyes.” Having soft eyes means cultivating the ability to take in the whole situation without focusing on one object. They call it 360-degree awareness. The skill of soft eyes is crucial to our ability to be a disciple maker because it enables us to take in the whole of a person and respond in a right manner with the right answers.

Last week I encouraged you to not de-value “small talk.” We must value small talk, because small talk paves the way for deep spiritual conversations. In addition to small talk, let me add a new item to our disciple-making tool belt, the tool of listening. Try not to be the one who monopolizes conversations. Ask questions and listen! Some people listen until there is a pause so they can then talk. A real disciple maker listens with the intention of understanding so he can help.

May God continue to strengthen our relationships here at FBC as we value small talk and practice auscultation.