Psychologists estimate that between 60% and 80% of all of our communication with other people is non-verbal. We communicate with our face, our hands, and even our body. We show our feelings, attitudes, moods, hopes and wishes far better with non-verbal language than with words.
Below is a great story of how our attitude is not only reflected by our body language but by the expression that is on our faces!
"During his days as president, Thomas Jefferson and a group of companions were traveling across the country on horseback. They came to a river that had left its banks because of a recent downpour. The swollen river had washed the bridge away. Each rider was forced to ford the river on horseback, fighting for his life against the rapid currents. Each rider was threatened with the very real possibility of death, which caused a traveler who was not part of their group to step aside and watch. After several had plunged in and made it to the other side, the stranger asked President Jefferson if he would carry him across the river. The president agreed without hesitation. The man climbed on, and shortly thereafter the two of them made it safely to the other side. As the stranger slid off the back of the horse onto dry ground, one in the group asked him, "Tell me, why did you select the president to ask this favor?" The man was shocked, admitting he had no idea it was the president who had helped him. "All I know", he said, "is that on some of your faces was a written the answer 'No,' and on some of them the answer 'Yes." His was a 'Yes' face." (From the book, Great Attitudes! by, Charles Swindoll.)
What kind of expression is on our faces today? Or maybe a more telling question would be, "Are we filled with hope or filled with despair?"
Can you imagine looking into the face of Jesus! Try to imagine what you would be seeing. I believe we would see a "Yes" face. I believe the expression on Jesus' face is love, hope, peace, kindness and strength - to name a few!
I have noticed that when I spend time praying to the Lord, afterwards my entire countenance changes. I am more gentler, more hopeful, kinder and more patient. My attitude is one of hope! I believe this change in my attitude and disposition is due to my time spent in His Presence.
When we pray, we are approaching the Throne of Grace and The God of All Comfort. We are receiving from Him the mercy, grace and help in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16). During our times of prayer and praise to Him, we are exchanging our weaknesses for His strength - our worry for His peace - our limited and fearful tendencies for His truth, His confidence, His promises and His unlimited understanding!
"What's the secret of a great attitude? Choice." Charles Swindoll
May we choose to spend time with God today and every day and may our choice to spend time with Him result in giving us a "Yes" face - especially to those who are hurting and are in need!
"You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures FOREVERmore." Psalm 16:11
No comments:
Post a Comment