Fors

As a Christian leader you have people around you, and they typically fall into two categories:  The Fors, and The Froms.  The Froms are the ones who want something From you.  They want your counsel, they want your teaching, they want your approval, they want your support, they want your friendship.  Based on Jesus' experience, this is probably the majority of the people around you.  And it's ok.  We are called to give of ourselves to others.  Like Jesus, we may need to get away from the Froms occasionally to refill the tank, but as a servant leader filled with the Spirit, you are ready, willing and able to serve.

But every leader is blessed to also have a few (maybe a precious few) who are there For them.  They are for your marriage.  They are for your ministry.  They are for you on a personal level.  They rejoice when you rejoice.  They weep when you weep.  They may be happy to receive from you, but they are intent on being a blessing more than a burden.  Generally, you can tell that you are dealing with a For because after an exchange with them you don't feel depleted.  They are positive.  They are uplifting.

I bring this to your attention, because some leaders make no room in their schedules (lives?) for Fors.  They are so busy with Froms (whom they will always have with them) that they feel guilty or frivolous about spending time with those who need nothing from them.  Remember, Jesus washed others feet.  He also got his feet washed on occasion.  Are you O.K. with that?