Proverbs 15:23
One
of the small joys in life is being able to help someone who asks you a
question, and you actually have a really good answer. And the answer you give
is accepted and it is helpful. I’m not talking about a smart alec reply, one
that makes you look smart and they look stupid. I am talking about actually
being helpful, supportive, caring, present, and genuine.
Do
you find joy when you help someone? I hope you do. I like it when others
succeed. I don’t have to be the object of people’s attention. I can sit in the
background and watch others succeed. The spotlight can shine on other people.
Can you allow other people to get the credit?
When
we are asked for advice we need to be sure our advice fits the situation. We
need to gather enough information to be sure what we are going to say really
fits with the problem being presented. Maybe they have already tried what we
are going to suggest! Find out what they have already tried. Find out more
background. Clarify their goals. Listen to the Holy Spirit.
There
isn’t much that is worse than a “I knew it was going to fail, and I didn’t tell
you about it.” The timing of our reply must be right. If we are too soon, they
might not be ready for advice. If we are too late, then it might be too late to
really make an impact on the outcome. Timing is important in advice giving.
I
want to encourage you to give answers that will stand the test of time. When
you don’t know, tell them you don’t know. When you do know, be willing to share
your expertise with them. Do it in a way that can be heard and accepted.