04.11. Dealing With Couples

11. DEALING WITH COUPLES In dealing with a couple, if one goes forward, I have often been able to get the other to go by saying: "Why don’t you go and kneel with him? You may not be interested but it will help him and will not hurt you. Don’t you believe if it was the other way around he would come and kneel by you?" I can recall many instances, after such an appeal, the individual has responded and both received definite help from God. When the one not responding to the invitation claims to be a Christian, appeal to him to go and pray for his companion or friend. I have known this appeal to be the beginning of a closer walk with God for those to whom it was made. A Married Couple

If you are dealing with a married couple with children, appeal to them on behalf of their little ones. Impress upon them how every child needs a Christian home, a Christian father and mother, and it is not only their privilege but their duty to give such a home to their children.

Out of Place "Wisecracks," silly or humorous remarks are always out of place when dealing with a soul. Never make cutting or harsh statements. Crude, cutting, and unkind words have no place in the vocabulary of one when he is inviting a man or woman to the altar of prayer.

Resentment

If you find resentment in the persons whom you approach, leave them immediately. There may be various reasons for their attitude. It may be that they do not like your looks. Personalities of some people clash on sight. Perhaps they just do not wish to be bothered. They may have heard something about you which makes them doubt you. Unwholesome rumors may have come to them which they believe. If they resent you, they have a reason or think they have. Their resentment, however, is no excuse for you to give them up. If you cannot reach them personally, you may be able to find someone else who can deal with them and win them to Christ.

Illustration

I remember the night I was converted. I very much resented the man who came and spoke to me. I did not know the man. It was just a personality clash. I did not like his looks and he sensed it and quickly left. This worker was not only as "harmless as a dove" but "wise as a serpent." Unknown to me he went around to another individual and, pointing me out, said, "I want you to go and invite that young man to come to the altar and I will stay here and pray for you." The worker he solicited to help him came and spoke words that caused me to yield and go forward and give my heart to God. If one resents you, do not give him up but try to reach him in another way.