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Key Bible Verse: Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (Proverbs 16:24) Bonus Reading: Proverbs 3:3; 11:17

The first time I walked into the medical practice Walt Larimore operated in Kissimmee, Florida, I was taken by surprise—by a smiling face. The receptionist stood up, beamed at me over the counter, and said, "Hi, how can I help you?" I was impressed!

I often feel more like a bother than a cared-for patient in medical offices. When greeted by a glass window and a clipboard to sign in on, you can only hope that someone realizes you've arrived and will in time call your name.

Not so at Heritage Family Physicians. The staff greeted me by name and appeared delighted to see me and interested in helping me.

And that's not all. If the doctor was running late, an office worker would alert patients of the approximate time the doctor would see them and then ask, "Is that okay?" This said they cared about their patients and realized their time is valuable.

Ordinary? Yes. Powerful? Absolutely. These common courtesies told patients that something was different about their staff and doctors. They created a foundation of goodwill in which trusting relationships could develop. Over time this resulted in many spiritual conversations.

—William Carr Peel in Going Public with Your Faith

My Response: I'll work at extending common courtesies to everyone I encounter today.

Thought to Apply: Kindness has converted more sinners than zeal, eloquence, or learning. —FREDERICK W. FABER (British priest, hymn writer)

Adapted from Going Public with Your Faith (Zondervan, 2003) by permission.

Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Fill me with Your Spirit, Lord, so that Your love will overflow to others in thoughtful actions.

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