Over the last several months, I’ve mentioned the ministry of Jamie Winship quite often, as his teachings have really challenged my thinking and especially my heart.  One thing Jamie talks about often is having a “generative” mindset instead of a “formulaic” one.  It’s a lot like the “growth” mindset I’ve discussed over the months, instead of the “fixed” mindset.  In this case though, we want to be open to learn and grow by being generative in nature.  I now realize that most of my thinking in the past has been formulaic.  Everything had to fit into some box and if it didn’t, I had to make a new box for things to fit into.  Even when we are sharing about Jesus, we can become SO formulaic!  What if instead, we can think generatively?  If so, we can really get to know people and not control them.  In essence, we will never make someone feel like a “project” ever again!

Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)

Spiritual Fullness in Christ

6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

So, What… for This Week?

When you look at your relationships, are you handling them more generative, or formulaic?  Many times, we have a set way of communicating with those closest to us.  We can put and then keep those relationships in a BOX and never have the courage to allow them to grow.  Ask better questions this week.  Try to generate stronger communication that will lead to stronger relationships with Jesus and others this week!  Assess your formulas for life and get rid of them to generate more and more interest in Jesus!