Six Ways to Win Hearts

1. The Foundation (Introduction)

The central theme of this song is about genuinely connecting with others, as taught by Dale Carnegie. It is about winning hearts and building meaningful relationships. While the song captures principles of human interaction, as believers, we must ground our understanding in Scripture. As the Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 2:3-4:

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

Let us look at what the Word of God says regarding these principles.

2. The Historical & Biblical Context

The scripture we examine today is found within Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Paul was writing from prison, addressing a community dear to his heart, encouraging unity and humility among believers. In the midst of his adversity, he profoundly cared for the spiritual well-being of the Philippians, urging them to emulate Christ’s humility. The context reveals a church facing external pressures and internal challenges. Paul’s exhortation to regard others highly and to be genuinely interested in their well-being serves as a foundation for godly relationships, transcending Carnegie’s merely humanistic approach.

3. Word Study (Hebrew/Greek)

Let us delve deeply into two critical Greek words in Philippians 2:3-4:

Understanding these terms helps us see that building genuine connections, as the song suggests, aligns with biblical humility and regard for others rooted in Christ’s example.

4. Theological Exposition

The lyrics speak to smiles, names, interest, and genuine listening. Let us analyze these concepts biblically:

### Smile and Light Up the Room

The Bible describes the countenance of the righteous as joyful. Proverbs 15:13 says, "A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance." Our demeanor can indeed bring warmth and hope into a room, reflecting Christ in us, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).

### Importance of Names

Names carry profound significance in Scripture. God Himself calls us by name (Isaiah 43:1). Addressing someone by name acknowledges their personhood, invoking a sense of importance and care, which mirrors God’s intentional knowledge of every individual.

### Be Genuinely Interested – Listen and Draw Near

James 1:19 instructs, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak." Listening cultivates understanding and compassion. Scripture repeatedly emphasizes God as a listener, who heeds the cries of His people (Psalm 34:17). By listening, we model after our Heavenly Father.

### Encourage Dreams and Speaking with Care

Proverbs 12:25 states, "An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up." In faith communities, we are called to build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Encouraging others’ dreams aligns with speaking life and hope, akin to the biblical exhortation to spur one another toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24).

### Sincere Praise, Avoiding the Fake

Romans 12:9 tells us to let love be without hypocrisy. Our interactions should be devoid of deceit. Genuine praise stems from recognizing the inherent worth God places on each person. Our call is to love sincerely, as an embodiment of Christ’s love.

5. Practical Application: How to Walk This Out

First, we must embrace humility as demonstrated by Christ. This is foundational. We must ask the Holy Spirit to strip us of pride and self-centeredness.

Second, we must engage others with genuine interest. This involves active listening, which requires setting aside our agendas to focus on the speaker's heart and needs.

Third, consciously use names when interacting, as an expression of valuing the individual and acknowledging their unique identity given by God.

Fourth, practice authentic encouragement and praise, avoiding flattery. Let your words be seasoned with grace, building up the hearer, as exhorted in Ephesians 4:29.

6. A Proclamation & Prayer

Proclamation:

In the authority of Jesus' name, I choose to walk in humility and love, valuing others above myself. I will speak life and encouragement, listen with sincerity, and acknowledge the worth of each individual, fulfilling God’s call to love as He loves.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for calling us to relationships that reflect Your love. May Your Spirit empower me to connect with others genuinely, with humility and grace. Let my words be a source of encouragement and truth, aligning with Your eternal Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.