Key Bible Verse: The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed (Proverbs 11:25). Bonus Reading: Acts 16:35-40

Al Rhodes and Clyde Upchurch, two Atlanta businessmen, attended a convention in Toronto. But they didn't know each other. One night during the convention, Al noticed a man standing alone and made his way over. After the normal exchange of names, Al asked Clyde where he lived. "Atlanta," replied Clyde.

Surprised, Clyde asked, "What part of Atlanta?"

Al announced, "Marietta."

"So do I," Clyde said, smiling in disbelief.

Al pressed on, "What area of Marietta?"

The pair found that not only were they in the same business, competing for many of the same accounts in the same city, but that they also lived just one block from each other!

When they returned to Atlanta, Al invited Clyde to join his fellowship of business owners. Clyde didn't take the invitation lightly. After all, how often does your principal competitor invite you into a group where he has substantial business relationships?

Al took a risk with Clyde. Fortunately, Clyde proved to be a man of character. And many of Al's peers followed his example by inviting their competitors.

—William Nix in Character Works

My Response: What purpose would cause Al to introduce his competitor to potential clients?

Thought to Apply: Sometimes you must go out on a limb. That's where the fruit is.—ANONYMOUS

Adapted from Character Works (Broadman & Holman, 1999) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, help me to be a true encourager to someone around me who needs a lift.

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