Spiritual Longings

By: Dave Niswonger

1 Peter 3:15-16

But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence…

Last year, a CIC brother met with a mutual business associate of ours. Later, he spoke to me privately about the spiritual longings of this person. This colleague had drifted away from the church and faith life over time, but had shared with this brother that he was searching for some spiritual meaning in life. This individual had expressed admiration for my faith and how I lived it out in my work. My CIC brother called me on to reach out and encourage this coworker.

This convicted me that I needed to pray for my coworkers and clients more diligently. What other opportunities had I missed by not being spiritually “tuned in” to others’ needs? I began to pray.

Soon thereafter, we began a business coaching program. One of the sessions was on having more balance in all phases of one’s life. In our session, the coworker in question said that he felt a need to address the spiritual vacuum in his life and wanted to reconnect with a church home.

I am now encouraging this colleague and answering questions, as well as praying as this person journeys closer to Jesus.

Thank God for my perceptive and prayerful CIC brother, who discerned the need in this person’s life and then, as I am sure he is continuing to pray for the individual, called me on to offer my own prayer, as well as encouragement and guidance. This is how God calls us as brothers and sisters in Christ to work together in building his kingdom.

TAKE THE CHALLENGE: Am I sensitive to the spiritual needs of others?