Ok, so I really tried to think of something profound to say, but couldn’t come up with anything. So, I am going to share something that I read in a book. The book is Shape by Erik Reese. This book expounds upon (you like those big words don’t you) an idea that was first brought up in Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Life.The idea is that each of us has been created with a unique shape for ministry. The book goes on to help you discover what your shape is and how to use it to minister. Anyways, as I was reading today it was talking about building a team of Christians that can help you discover your shape and help guide you in using this shape to minister. It talks about being authentic and transparent with the people that are close to you. All to often when someone asks how we are doing we answer “I’m fine.” Well, you and I both know that the vast majority of people that ask us this question don’t really want to know how we are doing. If you don’t believe me, then try this; the next time a casual acquaintance asks you how you are doing say, “Well, actually not so good.” Then go on to tell them some pain filled story, true or not. See how long it takes them to glaze over.

So, I am not suggesting that we open up to every person that asks us how we are doing. However, what I am suggesting is that we should open up with the few people that we are actually close to. In the book I mentioned before they suggest that FINE stands for Feelings Inside Never Expressed. I think there is a lot of truth in this. Society tells us that to express our pain makes us week. This is a lie told by the enemy. We must express ourselves. Otherwise our pain and bitterness corrodes us from the inside out. So, next time someone close to you asks you how you are doing, tell them. Not only will this help you, but it will bring you closer together.