Our Life Stories

April 18, 2013 By Michael Youssef, Ph.D. When we know and understand people better, we are more empowered to relate to them. Knowing more about individuals allows us to speak directly into their lives where they need it most, when they need it most. Whether you are in a marital relationship or not, taking time to get to know someone will help you bring out the best in that person. In 1 Peter 3:7, husbands are given the charge to honor their wives. This is a powerful life principle that we should apply to all relationships. People respond to different acts of love in different ways. However, everyone responds in a positive manner when someone takes an interest in his/her life. We all enjoy sharing our life stories. And when you take an interest in someone that goes beyond the courteous “How are you doing?” question, people come alive and open up their lives. During Jesus’ time on earth He had a large following, but He did not act like a superstar. He spent time with people and ate in their homes. When Zacchaeus was struggling to get a glimpse of Jesus from atop a sycamore tree, Jesus looked up at him and took more than a passing interest in his life. He suggested they eat dinner together. After one meal with Jesus, Zacchaeus, the once-hated tax collector, experienced a changed life. He returned the money to those he had taxed unfairly. In fact, he was so moved by the Savior’s love that he returned much more than was taken. Prayer: Lord, please give me a genuine interest in people. I pray for You to flow through me into their lives. I pray in the name of Jesus. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).