MEAT FOR MATURITY – DISCIPLESHIP

This is the last of four posts that answer the question, How can I improve my relationship? In the first post we looked at the importance of knowing each other’s weaknesses and prayer. In the second post in this series we looked at being an influencer, finding good counsel and learning to listen and empathize. In the third post we looked at being courageous and developing sensitive conversation skills. Here are the final three of the 12 ways to do this. KEY 10: Let go of control and outcome. One of the biggest problems in relationships is trying to control outcomes when we don’t need to. For example, in conversations we might try to make sure that they agree with us or that the conversation ends with the result we want. Or we might try to control their actions and get stressed or angry when we can’t. Thus, it is important to ask yourself Continue Reading →

Today we continue with our big question, how can I improve my relationship? In the first post we looked at the importance of knowing each other’s weaknesses and prayer. In the second post in this series we looked at being an influencer, finding good counsel and learning to listen and empathize. KEY 7: Be courageous. One of the big reasons we don’t tackle relationship difficulties is that we are afraid. We are afraid of conflict, we are afraid of getting hurt, we are afraid of doing it wrong, etcetera. In order to combat this, ask yourself if you are afraid. Then ask yourself if the fear is really as big as you think. Then ask yourself if that fear should really stop you from tackling a difficulty. Is it worth some discomfort to improve a relationship? The antidote to fear is faith. Trust God to help you and to help you learn. Continue Reading →

Today we continue with our big question, how can I improve my relationship? In the previous post we looked at the importance of knowing each other’s weaknesses and prayer. KEY FOUR: Remember your role as an influencer You have heard it said “You can’t change people.” Hopefully, people who say that mean that you can’t make people change, but many people don’t understand it this way. Many people think they can’t be a channel of change for someone else, or they use that idea as an excuse not to even try because it seems like hard work. But of course we can change people in the sense that we can influence people. In fact, scripture repeatedly asks us to influence people! We are to express kindness to them even if they are an enemy (an “enemy” for the moment?), hoping that they will be affected and follow the Lord. Scripture also Continue Reading →