eInspire 5: Initiating spiritual conversations

One of the greatest challenges I face in sharing my faith is initiating spiritual conversations. I have found that asking questions and really listening to people’s answers is the best way to bring spiritual truths into a conversation.

  • What are some of the ways you deal with the pressures of your job or position?
  • How do you balance your professional life with your family life?
  • How helpful or important is spirituality or religion in your life?
  • Please tell me about your spiritual journey.
  • May I tell you about my spiritual journey?

Questions about family, or dealing with challenges can move the conversation from professional issues to the personal.

If I know someone has made a recent career change, I might ask what inspired them to make the change. Perhaps they went through a major life transition. Ask them how they are doing as a result of that change.

Talking about hopes and dreams offers another natural bridge to spiritual discussion.

Encourage the other person to talk about themselves. What do they like about their work? What inspires them? What encourages them? Such questions will help both of you understand and know one another better.

Do you ever think about the significance of your life, what impact your life will have? What do you think is the purpose of life? Some may feel uncomfortable with such questions. But reaching this level of communication and understanding naturally leads to exploring spiritual truths and realities.

When the opportunity to discuss the Good News doesn’t come up, just relax. Some conversations will naturally go that direction, but others won’t. Listen lovingly and ask God’s Spirit to direct your thoughts and your questions.

In your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.1 Peter 3:15

Who would you like to learn more about this week? Enjoy “questioning” and having great conversations!

Unless otherwise noted all scripture is taken from the New International Version, ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.