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'WE MUST BEAR THE 'BURDEN' OF BEING CONSIDERATE OF THE DOUBTS AND FEARS OF OTHERS.' ROMANS 15:2
Today we're going think about that person in your youth group that winds everyone up. In every group there's at least one real pain. The thing is, Jesus loves even annoying people (which is good news for you eh?)!
So, will we love them as sisters and brothers and treat them with respect? In a real family acceptance isn't based on how smart, beautiful or talented you are; it's based on the fact that you belong to each other. 'Be devoted to each other like a loving family. Excel in showing respect' (Romans 12:10 GWT). It's the same deal with your youth group; you are family! 'But you don't know how annoying they are!' Ok, but try and put yourself in their shoes and understand where that person is coming from. When you know what they've been through or is still going through it'll help you be more understanding.
Sometimes a person's whole attitude and their annoying behaviour can change when they think people are listening to them. So another part of showing consideration is not downplaying other people's doubts or difficulties. Just because you don't have a problem with something doesn't mean you don't take their problems seriously!
People need a safe place to share their struggles and make mistakes without being judged. Oh yeah, and they have a right to expect confidentiality! What's shared in your group needs to stay in your group, and your group needs to deal with it, not go out and blab about it to others. Only in the safe place of acceptance will people open up and share their deepest needs. So show some love this week!
written by Bob Gass
'WE MUST BEAR THE 'BURDEN' OF BEING CONSIDERATE OF THE DOUBTS AND FEARS OF OTHERS.' ROMANS 15:2
Today we're going think about that person in your youth group that winds everyone up. In every group there's at least one real pain. The thing is, Jesus loves even annoying people (which is good news for you eh?)!
So, will we love them as sisters and brothers and treat them with respect? In a real family acceptance isn't based on how smart, beautiful or talented you are; it's based on the fact that you belong to each other. 'Be devoted to each other like a loving family. Excel in showing respect' (Romans 12:10 GWT). It's the same deal with your youth group; you are family! 'But you don't know how annoying they are!' Ok, but try and put yourself in their shoes and understand where that person is coming from. When you know what they've been through or is still going through it'll help you be more understanding.
Sometimes a person's whole attitude and their annoying behaviour can change when they think people are listening to them. So another part of showing consideration is not downplaying other people's doubts or difficulties. Just because you don't have a problem with something doesn't mean you don't take their problems seriously!
People need a safe place to share their struggles and make mistakes without being judged. Oh yeah, and they have a right to expect confidentiality! What's shared in your group needs to stay in your group, and your group needs to deal with it, not go out and blab about it to others. Only in the safe place of acceptance will people open up and share their deepest needs. So show some love this week!
written by Bob Gass
