YES

“Give them a chance to say ‘yes’” is one way of saying it. Another way is “Don’t say no for someone.”

And what this means is this. So often, we are afraid to ask someone to do something because we are afraid they will say, “no.” Or we assume, based on what we know about someone – their busy schedule, their opinions, something they have said in the past – that they will turn us down if we do invite them to do something, so we don’t even ask. In effect, we say “no” for someone without ever giving them an opportunity to say “yes.”

At church, we typically see this in a couple of places.

It happens when someone thinks that someone else would be really good in a particular ministry or a great addition in a small group. They might say, “I think so & so would do a great job at this” or “I think so & so would really enjoy our group.” But then the other side kicks in and the next thing goes something like this: “Yeah, but they turned me down last time” or “I know they are really busy now” or “They might not like the group” or “I think they might want to do something else” and so we never ask.

It also can be found in inviting someone to church. We sense the Spirit put someone on our hearts to invite or we think,” I think so & so might enjoy our worship services” or “I think so & so needs to be back in church” or “I would love it if so & so could be here too.” But then, the other side kicks in and the next thing goes something like this: “Yeah, but I bet they will say, ‘no’” or “I know they are busy” or “They might be going somewhere else, and I don’t want to embarrass them” … so we say, “no” for them, by not asking,

So, here’s a simple thing to remember in cases like this: “Don’t say ‘no’ for them.” Let them have the opportunity to make their own decision. Perhaps God has gone before you, and their hearts are already ready. Maybe they want to say, “yes”. Maybe they have been waiting and looking for an opportunity just like this, and God wants to work through you to do it. Maybe the time is right. Maybe they do want to say, “yes.”

So…don’t say ‘no’ for someone else. If they do say “no” it’s not the end of the world.

But what if they say “yes”? It could change their world for the better.  It could change their life for eternity. It could change the direction of their family for generations to come. A simple “yes” could be an open door to some amazing things God has for them in their life.

So, don’t say “no” for someone else. Give them the opportunity to say “Yes.” Let God work and see what happens.

Perhaps God is putting someone on your heart right now to invite to church with you or to be part of your ministry team or to try out your small group. Don’t say “no” for them. Say “yes” to asking.