RARE RelationshipsSample

Stop searching, Start becoming

If you could create the perfect friend, what would he/she be like? Take a minute or two and list some of the attributes you would find in this friend. When you’re done, see how they compare to the type of person Paul describes in Romans 12:9-21.

Paul lays out some pretty high standards here, but it would be tough to find someone who says he/she wouldn’t want this type of person as a close friend! The thing about relationships though (whether it’s friendship or a romantic one) is that you actually don’t win when you search for the “perfect” person. You win when you become the type of person you’re looking for.

A lot of times the Bible simply speaks for itself. No explanation is needed, just application. So why not listen to Paul’s advice and take one step in the direction of becoming the person that everyone wants in their life. Based off of Romans 12:9-21, you could:

1. Focus on being one-faced. Practice not saying anything about anyone that you wouldn’t say to his/her face.

2. Be someone who de-escalates situations. Avoid spreading rumors and falsehood, and always give others the benefit of the doubt when you don’t have all the facts.

3. Help someone who is in need.

4. Do whatever you possibly can to be at peace with those you would consider enemies.

There are plenty more exhortations from Paul in this passage, so feel free to read it over and over again. The purpose for today’s devotional is to at least pick one and live it out. The more we do that, the more we will become like the people we would like to have in our own lives, and it’s a win-win for us and the world around us when we do that!