THREE ANGELS BROADCASTING NETWORK DEVOTIONAL
Through the Eyes of Others.

By Jill Morikone January 3rd, 2026

“Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12

“Welcome to ________. For English, press 1. Para Español, presione el número 2.” Why do automated phone systems bother me so much? I reached out and pressed “1.”​

Immediately, the voice began again. “For English, press 1.” Breathe, Jill, I reminded myself as I pressed “1” again.​

I always put off calling this particular company. It was impossible to get a real person; and, when I did, they seemed very scripted. I’ve called many companies and talked to fabulous customer service representatives. But this company was different. Their people seemed very mechanical and impersonal. Since I have to call them for work, I’ve tried to break down that barrier. But I never seem to get anywhere.​

One time, I asked the lady about the weather, and she said, “Excuse me, ma’am. What was your question?”

I smiled. Finally, I’d gotten her off script. “What’s your weather like? We’re pretty cold here; actually we have snow.”​

Almost too soon, her voice came over the wire. “I’m sorry, ma’am. We don’t seem to have a proper answer to your question. I cannot help you.”

An automated voice jarred me back to the present. “For English, press 1.” I groaned. I’ve already pressed 1 several times. What’s wrong with their system? Suddenly, I realized the automated voice was still speaking. “Please hang up and try your call again.” Hanging up the phone, I spoke aloud in the office, “Lord Jesus, give me patience, I need it!”​

Dee, my coworker, laughed from her desk. “Be careful what you pray for, Jill. You never know what will happen!”

I nodded and picked up the phone again. “For English, press 1.” This time, it worked, and finally, I reached a person. However, pretty soon I heard, “I’m sorry, ma’am. I cannot help you. Let me transfer you to my supervisor.”

The supervisor was much more personal. After listening a moment, he said, “Ma’am, please turn your company’s phone off right now.” I pressed the button, but it refused to cooperate. As I struggled, he spoke again, “Now, your phone should be turning on.”​

“I’m sorry,” I said. “I’m still trying to turn it off.”

He took a deep breath. “Ma’am, I’m telling you for the last time, turn your phone off!” Suddenly, our roles reversed and I realized he’d had a tough day, too. I had become the frustrating customer.

I struggled to keep the laughter out of my voice. “Yes, sir, I’m doing that now. What would you like me to do next?”

Just a few moments and the problem was solved. I’m sure he hung up relieved to be rid of me. And me? I laughed until tears ran down my cheeks. God had given me a good lesson. One in patience—in not taking myself so seriously, and, most importantly, in seeing life through someone else’s eyes.