Sometimes the Christian life boils  down to the uncommon expression of common virtues. For example, you would expect that people indwelt by the Spirit of love would be friendly. What a difference practising that virtue would make in society!

Tim Sanders, in his book Likeability Factor, says that a person who provides others with “a sense of joy, happiness, relaxation or rejuvenation” is more likely to be hired or promoted. He maintains that some companies have actually abolished unfriendliness. They call their system I.O.N.U.: “I observe no unfriendliness.”

That principle should be practised by the citizens of Christ’s kingdom. When people are asked what they look for in a church, their first answer is friendliness. Unfortunately the reality is that many churchgoers are as distant as a star and as cold as space.

The Lord told ancient Israel that He “loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing” (Deut. 10:18). He commanded them to emulate His behaviour (v.19).

Friendliness is not just a wise business practise, but should be a characteristic of all who follow Christ. As you live your life, act in such a way that others say, “I observe no unfriendliness.”

Author

Haddon W. Robinson

Topics

Our Daily Bread