Counsel #4 — Initiate Socializing

Picture: Counsel #4 — Initiate socializingCR 14.1

If you want to make new friends, you need to choose to be friendly. Initiate conversation.^{[12]https://www.wikihow.com/Socialize-Without-Being-Awkward} Make eye contact and smile. Ask people questions about themselves. Listen attentively to their response.CR 14.2

When you’re walking in your neighborhood, stop to visit with people you see in their yards or on the sidewalk. If you see someone standing by themselves at work or church or a social gathering, introduce yourself. Ask them how their day or week is going, talk about why you’re both there, find out what you have in common.CR 14.3

If you are in a group and no one is talking to you, it’s tempting to make yourself seem even less approachable by scrolling on your phone or retreating to the background. But acting antisocial could make you miss out on valuable interactions and connections. Instead, ask God to help you care for the people surrounding you and take advantage of the social opportunities He gives you.CR 14.4

“A man [or woman] who has friends must himself be friendly. But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 NKJVCR 14.5

“Social advantages are talents and are to be used for the benefit of all within the reach of our influence.” Ellen White in Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 353CR 14.6

Reflect: What opportunities do you have to initiate socializing in your everyday life?CR 14.7