Today you can test your relational wisdom.
All you have to do is watch a three minute video clip and answer three questions.
You can keep your answers to yourself, or you can email them to me for a chance to win a $150 scholarship for training as an Approved RW Presenter or Certified RW Instructor. [1]
Are you ready?
As you watch the following video clip, notice how the central character, Mai Toi, responds to the news that she is dying of cancer.
Specifically, note how she lives out the principles of both the READ and SERVE acrostics. Here is a short review of both concepts:
To become more self-aware and self-engaging … READ yourself accurately
- Recognize your emotions (What am I feeling)
- Evaluate their sources (Why do I feel this way?)
- Anticipate the consequences (What will happen if I follow these feelings?)
- Direct them on a constructive course (How can I use these emotions for good?)
To become more other-aware and other-engaging … SERVE every person you meet
- Smile (home, workplace, church, store, telephone)
- Explore and Empathize (Show interest in and compassion for others)
- Reconcile (Be a peacemaker)
- Value (Express appreciation and respect)
- Encourage (Give courage, inspire, put wind under others’ wings)
Now, as you watch this clip, make mental or written notes of how Mae Toi lives out these concepts as she responds to the news that she has only two years to live. (You may want to watch the clip twice to catch all of the nuances; if the video screen does not appear, click here [2]).
Here are the three questions:
- How did Mae Toi live out the four elements of the READ principle?
- How did she live out the five elements of the SERVE principle, and how did that impact other people?
- There is no indication in the video clip that Mae Toi is a follower of Christ, so her actions would be the fruit of God’s common grace. [3] If you are a follower of Jesus, how can believing in the gospel [4]strengthen your ability to respond to life crises in a positive, hopeful and selfless way?
You can answer these questions in your own mind. Better yet, discuss them with a friend or small group Bible study.
I’d love to have you write out your answer and send it to me at mail@rw360.org, with the phrase “RW Quiz” in the subject line. I will select a few answers to post in next week’s blog, and award a $150 scholarship to the person with the best answer. This scholarship will apply toward training as either an Approved RW Presenter or Certified RW Instructor. [1] It is transferable, so you can use it personally or give it to a friend.
I look forward to reading your insights on relational wisdom!
– Ken Sande
Questions for Further Reflection
- How do the following passages strengthen our ability to live out concepts like the READ and SERVE principles in difficult times: Rom. 8:28-39; Rom. 5:1-5; Phil. 1:21-26; Matt. 10:28-30?
- Are you facing difficulties in your life that tempt you to feel sorry for yourself and withdraw from other people? How could you instead use your struggles as a springboard toward understanding and ministering to the needs of others?
Permission to distribute: Please feel free to download, print, or electronically share this message in its entirety for non-commercial purposes with as many people as you like.
© 2014 Ken Sande
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