When Relationships Get ComplicatedSample

Scope of Relationships

When it comes to relationships, we often think of our closest friends or family members. But we have connections with people across a broad spectrum: from strangers to neighbors to fellow church members and colleagues and beyond. While some relationships may take priority in certain seasons of life, relationships of all kinds are important.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us that we are the light of the world, a city on a hill, a candle on a lampstand that “gives light to all” (Matt. 5:15). That’s the thing about light—it spills out onto everything in its reach, not simply the area we aim to illuminate.

The same is true in our relationships. How well we love, listen to, and sacrifice for others may vary in degree but shouldn't be limited to those closest to us. How often does the course of our day change because of a kind word, generous act, or friendly smile from another person? We can offer that same grace to everyone around us—from a passerby on the sidewalk to the people we spend most of our time with.

Later in Matthew 5, Jesus goes further in widening the circle of our relationships. It’s easy to love the people who love us back, He says—even the tax collectors and Gentiles do that (vv. 46-47). But Jesus gives us an enlarged scope for our love and sacrifice, including our enemies and those who persecute us.

REFLECT

• Do you find it easier to use kind words with strangers or family members? What about making small, simple sacrifices—letting someone else go first, offering to pay for a cup of coffee, holding your tongue? Are those things easier to do with acquaintances or close friends? Why do you think there’s a difference?
• In his sermon “Impression or Impact? ” Dr. Stanley asks, “Whose life are you impacting?” and then explains, “Because the character of your life, and the conversations of your life, and the conduct of your life are impacting people all the time.” How would you answer the question, Whose life are you impacting? And alternately, who is impacting yours?