Becoming Real

Scripture

1 Thessalonians 2:7-8

But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her children.  Having a fond affection for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us.

Observation
Gently imparting truth into the lives of others . . . Relationship is key to having a place of trust in others lives; to pour your own life and the gospel into theirs.  Proving takes time too - so there is a commitment involved as well as a nurturing relationship with those we serve.  A fond affection like a mama to her young is something God will give us as we align our heart with His heart.

Application

I'm not always gentle - but God is working gentleness in me.  Gentleness is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit and only God can make it happen in me.  Developing a loving, caring relationship with those we influence and mentor means not being distant, aloof, or patronizing, or condescending.  It's not just passing on the 'good news' of Jesus Christ but rather, giving and sharing my life to those God has placed in my care.  That's what God wants me to do; pour myself into the lives of those I serve and love; like a 'mama tenderly caring for her own children'. 

Prayer
Father God, oh how I come up short on all counts!  I need You Lord, I need Your Holy Spirit to help me love like You love.  Teach me Your ways, show me Your heart O God, and let there come a gentleness and love that flows from me to the lost, the brokenhearted, the wounded, and the shattered souls You have allowed me to serve - those who desperately need Your touch!  Let me reach even just one!  

Sometimes Lord, I feel like the old skin horse in the story of the Velveteen Rabbit when he said, "those with sharp edges, or those who break easily won't become real".  I want to become REAL Lord and not get sharp or edgy or grumpy doing Your work.  Make me BECOME a vessel fit for Your use with all the sharp edges rubbed out. Let Your love have it's perfect work.
In Jesus Name,  A-men.