You Never Know Who Is Standing in Front of You

Most people would have considered it an ordinary day at work. A bank teller showed up, helped customers, processed transactions, and carried out the routine responsibilities of the job. What the teller didn’t know was that one customer walking through the door was carrying an invisible burden.

Joshua Broome later shared that he was contemplating ending his life. On the surface, he probably looked like any other customer. Nothing may have appeared unusual. Nothing may have suggested the struggle taking place beneath the surface. Yet that ordinary interaction occurred during an extraordinary moment. It is a reminder that we never know what another person is facing.

Our daily lives cause us to interact with all kinds of people.

• The cashier ringing up groceries.
• The coworker sitting across the office.
• The neighbor walking down the street.
• The person serving your meal.

Every person you encounter is carrying a story. Some are carrying burdens they have never shared with anyone else.

That is why Scripture encourages us in Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another.”

Kindness may seem small, but God often uses small acts in significant ways.

• A smile can brighten a difficult day.
• A kind word can provide hope.
• A listening ear can remind someone they are not alone.
• A simple conversation can become a divine appointment.

The bank teller likely thought it was just another customer. God knew it was someone standing at a crossroads.

Today, remember that the people around you may be fighting battles you cannot see. Your kindness may be the very encouragement they need.

So, slow down during your interactions today. Make eye contact. Learn a name. Offer a genuine word of encouragement. Ask someone how they are doing and truly listen to the answer. You may never fully know the impact, but God can use your ordinary kindness to accomplish extraordinary things.

Thanks for reading.