Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24 (NLT)
Yesterday we saw how passion produces perseverance. Another thing about passion is that it’s contagious.
A passionate person will be able to build an organization far more quickly than a knowledgeable person who isn’t passionate. Why? Because the passionate one will have no trouble attracting people with the right knowledge and skills, but it’s hard to teach someone to be passionate.
I’m reminded of a Tom Sawyer movie I saw years ago with my kids. In one scene, young Tom wasn’t allowed to go swimming until he finished painting a long fence. Now, most kids in his situation would grumble and complain. But when Tom’s friends came by to invite him to come swimming with them, he said, “No way! This is too much fun.”
As they watched him paint with gusto, one boy offered to give Tom his slingshot for a chance to paint for a while. Then another kid gave Tom his favourite marbles in exchange for a turn. By the end of the scene, Tom had gathered a pile of toys, and all his friends were busy painting the fence for him!
It goes to show that when you show excitement about something, you light up the people around you. If you want to lead and inspire others, start exhibiting passion. Being happy on the inside isn’t enough. You need to notify your face! I’m not saying you should be phoney. Passionate people can be serious at times. Just make an effort to show enthusiasm and reach out to encourage others.
As you nurture your own passion, you’ll find it spreading to others in your family, church and workplace!