A GOD CENTERED VIEW OF RELATIONSHIPS

A GOD CENTERED VIEW OF RELATIONSHIPS              November 1, 2026

No one can take Jesus seriously who doesn’t also take relationships seriously.  We were made for relationships – a relationship with God, the church, our families, our fellow man and even our enemies (cf. Genesis 2:18).  Every painful thing we experience in human relationships is meant to remind us of our need for God and a relationship with Him.

Here are seven relationship principles from our Lord and Saviour:

The Principle of Love – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.  By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35).  Does Christ’s love impact my relationships?

The Principle of Humility – “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).  Does the humility of Christ help me deal with my selfish pride and ego? 

The Principle of Service – “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).  Does the servanthood of Christ teach me to emphasize the needs of others more than myself?

The Principle of Patience – “Love is patient and kind” (I Corinthians 13:4).  Does the patience of Christ help me to be patient with people and with circumstances?

The Principle of Brotherly Affection – “Love one another with brotherly affection.  Outdo one another in showing honor” (Romans 12:10; Matthew 22:36-40).  Does the affection of Christ motivate me to treat others as He would? (cf. Philippians 2:1-4).

The Principle of Acceptance/Welcome – “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7).  Does the acceptance and welcome of Jesus cause me to be gracious in my treatment of others?

The Principle of Forgiveness – “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).  Does the forgiveness of Jesus cause me to be slow to take offense or to hold grudges and to be quick to forgive?

By Mike Vestal