Responders Preferred

Life comes at you fast. Pitfalls and missteps to the right and to the left. Dangers lurk around the corner. Our fast paced life often causes us to fly right by things we should be taking time to clearly see. The world has so many distractions we often miss the importance of slowing down and enjoying the moment right in front of us. Soon life is spinning so fast there doesn’t seem to be very many grains of sand left in our hourglass.

At some point, we have learned the difference between respond and react. The word respond means to say something in return. React is described as to change in response to a stimulus. A thought came to mind while participating in a ladies Bible study this past week. I brought up the question, “If you were in a serious accident would you rather have a Responder show up or a Reactor?”

I am sure we would all like someone to show up to help, but, if a Reactor showed up they might be impulsive and all over the place. There is a chance they will be so busy trying to decide what to do that won’t actually be able to help. A feel a Reactor dives right in before truly accessing the situation. They might even begin to second guess their decisions as they go along. They may begin to ask a million questions and overwhelm the situation rather bring clarity and peace.

If a Responder appeared on the scene we could be assured they have been trained to handle the emergency. They would be intentional when accessing the situation at hand. They would know who to call. They would be able to delegate others around to ensure you receive the proper care. There would be clear directions and a calmness even in the midst of extreme conditions.

How does one become a Responder rather than a Reactor? Is is something passed down through the generations? Does it take years of education? Like I mentioned above life happens fast. From conception to old age we are exposed to trauma and triumphs. We have good days and bad days. There are highs and lows. We go through stages of emotions in every aspect in life. Some of us have learned to cope with life’s ups and downs. We react or respond depending on the situation.

Overall, one would desire to be a Responder. We would like to remain calm in emergencies. We would desire to be clear headed and intentional. So how does one achieve this “status”? I believe we become Responders by seeking healing from the Lord. By putting Him first and truly beginning to trust Him completely. When our lives are ruled by peace things make more sense. We are able to slow down and access situations rather than running around like a chicken with its head cut off. We are able to breathe deeply and know everything will be okay no matter what the outcome is.

I pray God gives me a revelation on the how to be a Responder rather than a Reactor. I long to be at peace and clearheaded so as to offer comfort and direction for those in need of help. I want to be able to choose peace rather than chaos. I want to know at the end of day even though the grains of sand are dwindling in my hourglass that I have helped someone become closer to God because I chose to slow down and Respond rather than rushing right by something by Reacting out of fear or indecision.