Learning to Lead Like JesusНамуна

Learning to Lead Like Jesus with Relationships

Jesus Was Relational

Jesus was relational because He loved people, especially people who claimed no religious devotion. He took his disciples with Him to the house of Matthew, a despised man, frowned on by his fellow Jews for being a Roman tax surrogate. Jesus knew the best way to get to know someone was to be with them where they lived. He invited His followers to join Him so they could learn how to better love sinners. Christ was criticized by the religious elite for being too familiar with sinners, but our Lord was happily fulfilling His mission “to seek and to save the lost.”

What Does it Take to Build Quality Relationships?

A Point to Ponder: The quality of our lives are influenced by the quality of our relationships. 

You probably desire quality relationships, but are you willing to pay the price of investing in others, with the goal of providing more value than you receive?

What does it mean to have quality of life? Is it good health? Harmony at home? A happy heart? Financial security? Freedom of speech and worship? A fulfilling career? Grateful and contented children? A meaningful marriage? A life of significance? Peace with God? Probably some of these elements and more make up a life worth living, a quality life.

Relationships matter, because the quality of our lives is influenced so heavily by the quality of our relationships. Who we spend time with is who we become. If we spend time with those who are wise with their finances, we too can become wise with our finances—if we pay attention. If we worship with those of great faith, we too can grow in our faith. Our lives reflect our relationships.

So how is your relational portfolio? Is it diversified with people who bring value to all aspects of your life? Conversely, are you intentional in investing time and interest in those who look to you for guidance? Quality of life flows not just from receiving wisdom but from giving wisdom. Wisdom works both directions for the good of relationships.

A Point to Ponder: Our relational investments are our greatest assets.

Questions for Reflection...

• What is your plan to relationally invest in others? Why is this wise?
• What challenges do you face? How do you overcome these obstacles?
• What has been your greatest relational reward?