Developing Foundations for Healthy Relationshipsنموونە

Over the past ten studies, we have looked at four very different Biblical relationships:

First, the relationship between God, Adam, and Eve teaches us that we are designed to be in a relationship with God and other people. We are created beings living in an increasingly lonely and isolated world. As followers of Jesus, we need to be intentional about setting habits and routines that connect us to God and keep us in relationships with others.

Secondly, the relationship between David and Saul teaches us the importance of faith and fear of the Lord. We need to keep our eyes on God, and not allow ourselves (or our relationships) to be swayed by pride or jealousy. David was humble, loyal and selfless because He maintained confidence in the Lord’s power and timing. Just as David displayed his Godly character, we too must implement practices within our lives that develop and nurture these same characteristics within us.

Thirdly, the relationship between Mary and Joseph teaches us the importance of responding (instead of reacting) to the circumstances and people that come our way. Just as Joseph considered his response to Mary’s pregnancy, we too must be a people who control our emotions, practice self-control, lean into the Holy Spirit, and respond with the kindness and grace that only God can work within us.

Finally, the relationship between Jesus and Judas teaches us that we are to unconditionally love all people, even the most difficult ones. Only God can change the human heart, and therefore, once again, we find ourselves at His feet and at His mercy.

At the end of the day, in order to cultivate healthy relationships in all areas of our lives, we must become healthy people. We can only do that by being people who are connected to God, filled with His Spirit, and are being made into His likeness. This does not happen overnight, and we need to put in the daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly work to develop Godly characteristics within us.

Finish off this study by journaling or thinking through the following questions:

What has God been revealing to you about your relationships through this study? What has God been revealing to you about yourself?

What life practices or habits do you need to adopt (or remove) in order to grow in your relationship with God and other people?

Today’s Bible reference is Psalm 59, which may seem like an odd choice. But, this is one of David’s psalms - written when in the grips of his seemingly endless flee from and battle with Saul. In it, we see David pour out his heart to God, using passionate and honest language, praising God but also bearing his soul. David trusted God for his justice, and at the end of the day: he trusted God for everything. In public, David was level-headed, humble, compassionate, and self-sacrificing. But with God, he was brutally honest and totally free. Finish out this study by writing your own psalm to God, pouring out your heart, emotions, and devotion for yourself, and the relationships in your life.

Did this plan encourage you? We’d love to get to know you better!

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