A hallmark of coaching is the conversation topic always comes from the client, not the coach. We ask what the client would find important or meaningful to work on. And then we explore that topic to assist the client to make progress.

Coaching clients are pleasantly surprised that we listen to them and value what they care about. To them, that’s helpful. That’s useful.

Being useful is important. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.” 2 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬b ‭NIVUK‬‬

As Christians, I wonder how the people around us view our usefulness and the value we add to their lives and the larger community. Remember, everyone evaluates based on what’s important to them.

What if Christians regularly asked:

• What do you see as the most pressing issues in our community?

• What could our church do that would be useful to the community?

• What value might we endeavor to add?

I know one church who asked community leaders these questions. What they heard was a need for affordable and immediately available counselling. The church created a space, refocused a staff member, and recruited two other counsellors to meet the need. The city now refers people to them. Because they are useful.

If “useful” is in the eye of the beholder, to know, we need to ask.

Grace & Peace,

Keith Webb