First Baptist Church of Herndon

Knowing Yourself

Linda Soller | Sep 23, 2024

It may seem kind of silly to say you need to really know yourself if you’re going to know others, but it’s true. If you were asked to describe yourself in a statement of thirty words or less, could you do it? Are you a bit defensive or argumentative? Maybe you are always pleasant and giving. Could you be artistic or sporty? When you consider all the areas of your life it may be hard to cover them in thirty words. 

People who have a good understanding of who they are seem to be able to relate more effectively to others. The knowledge does not mean they are perfect. And it’s not to say they like everyone or hate everyone because of their own natural tendencies. It’s more like you would know better how to work with others, interact in a reasonable manner, and make stronger relationships. The relationships I’m referring to are the working world, neighborhood, family, and miscellaneous people you encounter. The same is true of a church. Knowing what is important to your church is critical if you are trying to explain to a visitor what they might expect. For example: “We are a friendly church.” So, does that mean you are always friendly to a visitor, but once they are coming to church you move on? How sad is that? If a church is truly friendly, then it starts when you meet someone and continues with time. That new person should always be able to say to others, it is/was a friendly place, I do/did feel welcomed. The size of a congregation will change over time for a variety of reasons. The character of a congregation may not. It helps to move forward if we know who we are in the present.

This week, think about your thirty words and knowing yourself better. You can put that knowledge to good use when serving God.

Be kind, be brave, have faith!  : )   Linda