Leadership Thought: How Approachable Are You?

Dear Friend,

When it comes to abilities, one of the greatest abilities a believer can possess is “approachability.” Christians need to be approachable. There was no one who ever lived who was more approachable than Jesus. People flocked to Him. Those on the fringes, the outcasts and the ‘undesirables,’ were attracted to Him. He was accessible, available, and when people met Him they always found a friend who would welcome them and seek to meet their needs.

Unlike Charlie Brown who was famous for speaking those words, “I love mankind, it’s just people I can’t stand,” Jesus loved people, and it was this welcoming quality that caused people to flock to Him.

Are you and I approachable? Do people look forward to being in our presence? Are we open and friendly and good at making people feel welcome and comfortable when they are with us?

Approachable people possess the quality of humility. Being humble they recognize that they are not above anyone else.

They are non- judgmental. They don’t judge people; they simply love them just as Jesus did.

And finally, they are  kind. They make time for people and go out of their way to make them feel special. It is true as Christian Bovee writes that “Kindness is the language the deaf and hear and the blind can see,” and kind people should always be looking for opportunities to make life easier for others.

As you walk through life today, I encourage you to look for ways to make yourself approachable. Be on the lookout for opportunities to invite others into your life.

Jesus invited everyone to be His friend. He welcomed them into His life saying,  “Come unto Me, all you that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Is there someone today who might find a special measure of rest because you took the time to be approachable?

Yours in faith and friendship,

Tom