Once you’ve identified your one, it is crucial that you find time to build the relationship with them. Your one is worth your investment of time, money, and emotions.
Occasionally, I decide to look at my retirement account. My hope is that the account has grown, but I must take the long look. Some weeks, the account is down and some weeks the account is up. I keep investing…why because over time I trust that the account will grow, and I will be able to retire with dignity.
Investing in your one will be similar. Don’t give up, keep investing in your one. Lance Crowell, Discipleship Leader for the Southern Baptists of Texas recommends three key things that you can do to develop your relationship:
- Find common interests and spend regular time with them – What do they like to do? What can you enjoy together?
- Listen more than you talk – Ask good questions and focus on developing a deeper relationship.
- Be willing to be the 2:00 am call – Develop the friendship so that you stand ready and available in a time of need or crisis.
Many of my Sunday School class members are avid hunters (not me). One Sunday, a new family was sitting behind us in worship. The man and one of my members begin talking and both were avid hunters. That afternoon, over 20 years ago, he took him hunting and they are some of our best friends today and leaders in my church. Ask questions, listen for those common interests, connect with your one. Over time, your investment will grow and you will have the opportunity to share with him about Jesus.
As you invest, remember your one is not a project, but a person who needs Jesus.
Leave a Reply