Five Minute Friday - Observant

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One word. Five minutes to write about it. This is the idea behind Five Minute Friday and this is today's free-writing post.

be a little more observant

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It's not easy to be truly observant, and it must come more easily to some people than others. Sometimes I notice or sense that someone seems in need of encouragement or help, but I don't think I'm naturally or consistently good at it. Yes, it's a relational skill so it is more natural for some of us, but I'm sure that it's a skill we can develop. I'm working on learning to be observant enough to pick up on the clues to another person's mood or emotional condition.

When I am observant, what do I do about it? It's not much good to just observe and file the information away but not do anything about it. 

Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. ~James 2:15-17

At the very least, when I sense that something might be wrong or when the Holy Spirit nudges my thoughts in that direction, I can - and do - pray for them. Ask God to meet that need, whatever it may be, and ask if there is something I should do or say to help. 

When a need is obvious and we have the means to do something about it, I don't think we should hesitate. Whether it's a kind word of encouragement, a sensitive question about what would help, or a tangible helping hand. As the advertising slogan goes, "just do it". 

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. ~Proverbs 3:27

Or how about being observant to when others are doing a great job? I'm also working on being generous in thanking people and telling them how much I appreciate what they do.

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Often small acts of service are all that is required to lift and bless another: a question concerning a person's family, quick words of encouragement, a sincere compliment, a small note of thanks, a brief telephone call. If we are observant and aware, and if we act on the promptings which come to us, we can accomplish much good. ~Thomas S. Monson

This post is linked at Five Minute Friday for the word prompt "Observant".

This post is also part of the Write 28 Days Blogging Challenge hosted by Anita Ojeda. Find all my posts for the challenge here: Write 28 Days Blogging Challenge - Disappointed

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