Today’s devotional (Catching Whimsy, Bob Goff, Jan 5) reminds me of the importance of focusing less on self and more frequently on helping others find their way forward. 

How can I do that? By emulating Christ, of course. Just as He did, I’m to . . .

* take a genuine interest in the people around me

* endeavor to see them as God sees them and to see in them what He sees in them

  * remind them of who I think they are & of who I think they are becoming ~~ in positive ways, of course

Let me share just one example, several years ago a former coworker made a major misstep and was fired as a result. For over two years, she openly discussed her anger toward and desire for vengeance against those who were morally & legally obligated to report her conduct. But ten months ago she asked me to pray that God change her attitude, and in the months since, I’ve seen clear evidence that He has.

I need to acknowledge to her the positive change I see.

I need to be intentional in seeing others as God sees them and in sharing words that will encourage them to continue moving forward.