Receptive vs. Non-Receptive (Part 2)

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thess 2:16-17 NIV

Webster defines receptive as open and responsive to ideas, impressions, or suggestions. Growth is impossible without reception. Just as plants cannot grow without receiving water, sunlight, and nourishment, our spiritual growth is stunted by seasons of non-reception. A non-receptive believer has less to offer other believers and is less likely to recognize the needs of non-believers. A non-receptive believer may fail to recognize God’s blessings and protection.

In contrast, a receptive believer hears God’s voice; sees God’s handprint; feels the snuggly down of His protective wing; recognizes blessings in trials; and knows when to send a card or offer a hug. A receptive believer can more quickly recognize and respond to Satan’s attack.

A receptive believer should reflect the signal he or she receives. A receptive spirit reflects God’s love and kindness; encourages other believers along their journey of faith; and recognizes and responds to the lost and the hurting. A receptive believer is able to look past his own trials and circumstances and reach out to one whose signal is presently blocked. A non-receptive believer needs the gentle encouragement of a receptive believer.

Next we’ll look at the ways we can improve or increase our reception……….