How many times would you say you ask someone how they are doing? Seriously, we want you to count. Then think about how many times you actually mean it.

This week’s challenge is all about being genuine. It’s time to put the “how” back into “how you doin’?” As Christians, it is our duty to truly care for others. Aren’t you tired of the normal dialogue? If you aren’t sure what we are referring to when we say “normal,” here’s an example:

It’s 10:15 a.m. and you just woke up late for your 10:30 class. Afraid you are going to be late for class, you quickly get ready and head out the door. As you are walking, you see your friend whom you haven’t talked to in almost two months.

You: Hey bro! How you doing man?
Person A: Hey, what’s up! I’ve been chllin man. You?
You: I’m good, bro, just running late. It was nice seeing you. We should hangout some time.
Person A: For sure man. Take care, bro.

Now, what’s wrong with the dialogue you just read? For starters, you didn’t really gain any information from your conversation other than that your friend has been “chillin’.” However, what your “friend” neglected to tell you was that he has just lost his job and is running into some huge financial troubles. He forgot to mention that he could really use someone to hang out with since dumped by his girlfriend for cheating on him and things with the fam haven’t been going so well lately. He left out the fact that he may not be returning to school and may not even be able to finish out the semester. Instead all you got was that he was…”chillin’.”

Whether it’s “what’s up,” “how you doin’” or “what’s going on,” it’s time for us to be more genuine and intentional with what we say. This week, we challenge you to ask someone how they are doing and truly mean it. Be aware of your time and make sure that you have the time to talk to them, encourage them, pray with them and, most importantly, listen to what they really have to say. Are you up for the challenge? It may seem like a simple and easy thing to do, but we will just wait and see how your cards play out.

After you have completed the challenge, take some time to reflect upon the week and the actions you took to complete the tasks, and then create a post (video is highly encouraged!) and upload it to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtags #BTGUM and #BlackJackChallenge for a chance to be featured on our page. Don’t want to post to social media? No problem! We still want to hear from you! Send an email to blackjack@btgum.com and let us know how each challenge has impacted you.

Make Your Move