My wife and I once enjoyed a Bible study on Wednesdays. About a dozen of us joined a Zoom meeting at six in the evening. The leader was a young pastor who had pastored a local church for four years. Everyone loved him because he was so earnest. He was a great example of one who strived to be obedient in all things, not just in preaching.
People present themselves to others in many ways, attempting to win friends or gain followers. I use humor. And I always try to smile, even when I don’t feel like smiling. Some people are just charismatic, having the right look and style. They always know just the right thing to say.
I often wonder why Jesus presented Himself to people the way He did. He was loving but truthful and encouraging but with high expectations. He taught, healed, and corrected people when needed.
Jesus was also all about self-sacrifice. Those who do for others follow His commands and emulate His actions. This is who we are and must be to impact the world around us. If we want a lasting relationship with Jesus, we must have lasting relationships with one another. When we draw people to ourselves, we draw them toward Jesus. After all, no one wants to meet Jesus from someone who turns people off.
Remember, your relationships are about glorifying God, not pleasing yourself. Make sure you gain friends and influence people for the right reasons.
Carl Schleede is a writer.