When People Tell You What You Already Know

“So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have.” 2 Peter 1:12

My daughter and I were doing some shopping in Grand Turk last week on vacation. As we went from store to store, the owner or salesperson would quickly move to greet us, and point out their inventory for sale. “Necklace! I have many necklaces! Bracelets, for lovely ladies like you…handbags, right here…” they would say. In store after store, we experienced the same thing as is common when you are shopping at different ports.

We entered one shop and there was no one there to greet us. I was shocked. I immediately sprang into action, to give “the spiel” we were missing. “Necklace! I have many necklaces! Bracelets, for lovely lady like you…handbags, right here…” I quipped to Savanna.  I got the, “Mom, you’re so silly,” vibe from her. 

 “Hey, the lady’s not here to give us the same spiel we’ve already heard and point the stuff that we already know is there,” so somebody had to give the spiel.

“Mom,” Savanna admonished, “she’s doing her job-- just like you do. When you think about it, you both do the same thing!”

“What do you mean?” I said.   

“Well, in many instances, you give the same spiel that people have already heard and point to the stuff they already know. Part of your job is saying, ‘Hey look at this scripture!’ and most people already know it’s there. In most cases, you’re pointing to things people know, and just aren’t doing. Or they forgot. So, you’re just reminding them of what’s there.”  


Yep.

I had to admit, she was right.

I’m going to try to remember that next time I get flustered about somebody’s reminder.

We can all use a good reminder of what we already know is there – but many times fail to act upon.