Creature of Habit
Johnny Russell —
I’m not sure if you’re like me, but I am certainly a creature of habit.
I go to the same gas station.
I go to the same grocery store.
I go to the same restaurants.
Boring? Maybe. But part of the reason is that I like getting to know the people at each of these establishments. When you get to know people, and they get to know you, who knows what can happen!
I met Ahmed several weeks ago at his workplace. The next time I visited, I made sure to remember his name, and to my surprise, he remembered mine! You may not think that’s a big deal, but it’s tough to make a friend if you don’t start by knowing each other’s names.
After a few more visits, the Lord opened the door to a 20-minute conversation. I learned about Ahmed’s life circumstances—like how he recently moved from India to Texas. I also discovered that he regularly attends our city’s local mosque, which I didn’t even know existed.
Recently, I’ve been learning about Islam, but instead of showing off, I demonstrated my interest in Ahmed by asking questions about his faith. He gladly welcomed my questions and was more than happy to answer. Then, in response, he asked questions about me and my faith in Jesus.
That’s often how it works. If we’re willing to take an interest in others, even in what they believe, they’re often willing to take an interest in us, and natural opportunities arise to share about Jesus.
Now, I drop into Ahmed’s workplace once a week to continue our friendship and engage with him on a spiritual level. If you asked me, “Who are you praying for these days?” I’d quickly say, “Ahmed.”
So, yes, I am a creature of habit—but not just when it comes to the places I frequent. I make it a habit to get to know people’s names, discover who they are and what they believe, pray for them, and share my life and love for Jesus along the way.
Maybe you can become a creature of habit too.
Johnny Russell is the Area Director of Search Tyler, husband of one, father of four, loves people recklessly, rarely has met a stranger, and attempts to live life intentionally in all he does.
