Who benefits from you being in their life?

What If God Put You There for Them?

I read this week that somewhere around 50–60% of people say they feel isolated or alone in life. Someone commented “Maybe all the lonely people should just get together with the other half that isn't?"

It's funny but what if there something to it.

The reasons people feel alone are complicated. We're overworked. We're busy. We can feel overlooked. And while we're more connected digitally than ever, we're often spending far more time looking at screens than looking at faces.

So here's a question: What if God has you where you are right now, in part, for the people around you?

What if that job isn't just a job? What if that neighborhood isn't just where you happen to live? What if that family isn't just the family you were given? What if the people God has placed around you are part of what He has entrusted to you?

Last week, we saw that God is the owner and that He has entrusted us with things like our money, our time, our abilities, and our opportunities.

This week, we're going to talk about another thing God has entrusted to us: people.

Our spouses. Our families. Our friends. The people we work with. The people who sit next to us at church.
Even the people who sometimes drive us a little crazy.

What if they're all part of God's plan to show His kindness through us?

One of my favorite stories is found in 2 Samuel 9. David had made a promise to his friend Jonathan that he would care for his family. Jonathan was killed in battle, David became king, and some time later David asked a remarkable question: “Is there anyone left from Jonathan's family to whom I can show God's kindness?”

They found Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth.  He was disabled, living in fear, and apparently expecting nothing good from the king.

But David didn't forget him. David noticed him, invited him in and gave him a seat at his table.

And I think there's something in that story for all of us.  Maybe showing God's kindness to the people He has entrusted to us begins with some simple things:

1. Notice them. Use their name. Look them in the eye. Put the phone down. Give them your attention.
2. Ask them. Ask questions. Listen. Don't always be waiting for your turn to talk. Sometimes loving someone simply means giving them the space to be heard.
3. Look for ways to help. Help with a project. Make the phone call. Pray with them. Show up. Find a practical way to make someone's load a little lighter.

Because here's what I'm learning: People don't need to be managed as much as they need to be noticed.

And in God's Kingdom, people are the point. It was Jesus who said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40

So here's your challenge before Sunday: Think of one person God has placed in your life who could use a little more of your attention.

Notice them. Ask them. Look for how you can be of Help to them.

You may discover that God didn't just put you where you are for you. He may have put you there for them.

How can I help you, friend?

Pastor Mike

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