Counsels on Lifestyle

Counsel #1 — Jesus Socializing

Picture: Counsel #1 — Jesus Socializing CLi 3.1

Christian socializing includes interacting with people in various settings in a friendly way. Examples of Jesus socializing include his participation in the wedding at Cana, mingling with His disciples at the Passover Feast, visiting Mary, Martha and Lazarus in their home and coming as a guest to Simon’s party. CLi 3.2

Jesus modeled mixing with people as one who not only enjoyed human interaction but used the occasion to speak well of God and His character of love. CLi 3.3

“The sweetness of a man’s friend gives delight by hearty counsel. Do not forsake your own friend or your father’s friend…. Better is a neighbor nearby than a brother far away.” Proverbs 27:9, 10 NKJV CLi 3.4

“The Saviour’s entire life was characterized by disinterested benevolence and the beauty of holiness. He is our pattern of goodness. From the beginning of His ministry, men began to comprehend more clearly the character of God. He carried out His teachings in His own life. He showed consistency without obstinacy, benevolence without weakness, tenderness and sympathy without sentimentalism. He was highly social…. His temperance never led to bigotry or austerity. He was not conformed to the world, yet He was attentive to the wants of the least among men.” Ellen White in Counsels to Parents, Teachers and Students, p. 262 CLi 3.5

Reflect: Do you find it easy to connect with others? Are you comfortable sharing your faith in social settings? What can you do to improve?^[1] CLi 3.6