How do you start a spiritual conversation in a way that is natural and appealing?  Learn the art of listening and asking questions.  There’s definitely a time for explaining the gospel message clearly, but listening – really listening – should come first.  People feel valued and respected when we show a real interest in their ideas, beliefs, and experiences.

Part of listening well is learning to ask great questions – questions that will gently steer the conversation towards something deeper.  Something I’ve found enormously helpful is Erwin McManus’ Soul Cravings approach.  He points out that all human beings share the same universal longings for destiny, intimacy, and meaning – soul cravings that can really only be fulfilled by God.  What do you hope for the future?  Is your marriage satisfying?  Where do you find meaning in life?  What makes you happy?  What scares you?  These are all questions that relate to our soul cravings, and ultimately to God.

I’ve used the Soul Cravings approach with all kinds of people – with a group of teenagers hanging out in a park, with rugby players my son brought home for dinner, with the Muslim owner of a bar and grill in Calgary.  Think about the people in your life who don’t know Jesus.  What do they crave?  I encourage you to start a conversation and begin to find out.

Take Action:

Watch How to Use the Prequel to learn more about the Soul Cravings approach and the Soul Cravings Prequel, a short, compelling book you can use as a discussion piece with your friends.

Learn from Erwin’s example. Watch Crave: The Documentary to see how a humble, accepting approach leads to incredible conversations.

Serving Jesus together,

Leonard Buhler