Friday, April 16 The thoughts of a man’s heart are like deep waters, but the discerning man draws them out.​—Prov. 20:5.

[Áine]

Friday, April 16

The thoughts of a man’s heart are like deep waters, but the discerning man draws them out.—Prov. 20:5.

 

When preaching, we must try to understand the factors that have influenced the people we meet. The apostle Paul grew up among Jews. He surely had to adapt his preaching to Gentiles, people who knew little or nothing about Jehovah and the Scriptures. We might have to do some research so that we can empathize with and understand the people in our territory. (1 Cor. 9:20-23) Our goal is to find “deserving” ones. (Matt. 10:11) To be effective, we must invite people to express their opinions and then listen attentively. A brother in England asks people for their opinion about how to have a happy marriage, how to raise children, or how to cope with injustice. After listening to their comments, he says, “What do you think of this advice written nearly 2,000 years ago?” Then, without saying the word “Bible,” he shows them well-chosen scriptures on his phone. w19.07 21-22 ¶7-8

[Áine]

Using view point questions has often been advised, so that we can gently draw a person out... have a few questions ready in your mind. 

 

The purpose isn't to trick those we speak to but to find discerning ones. 

[Vinnie]

Why are they like deep waters? Because they are hidden. A stranger will rarely open up if the circumstances are not right. Will he/she really open up to just anyone,especially at their front door. It takes time to get to know them and for them to trust not only us but the message from the Bible. When I think of Jesus talking to the Samaritan woman, perhaps he planned a few moments alone with her so she would be more as ease to speak freely. Would she have if the other disciples were there? 

 

 

 

 

 

[Elnathan]

The brother in UK is tactful like the Apostle Paul - he doesn’t make direct reference to the Bible when reasoning to people about life’s problems rather he uses an electronic device to show the scriptures.
It’s good to change our approach when searching for deserving ones, as some people are shy or don’t believe in the Bible.