Robust Relationships

What is a robust relationship? It is healthy, strong, and dependable, and grows with time. Just like money experiences compounding interest over years, so do relationships that are given focused attention. Outside of our time with the Lord, investment in people is our greatest asset. Relationships mean something—when relationships mean something.

How do you view your most significant relationships? Your spouse? Your children? Your parents, grandparents and siblings? Do they feel honored or tolerated by your behavior? Are you proactive or reactive in how you reach out to them? It’s even more necessary to initiate relationally to those who are socially immature and who have never had good relational models to learn from. Those of us—who know better—are responsible to love on those who don’t know any better. Relationships require a leader who loves well.

“Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4).

Furthermore, it’s out of our relationship with the Lord that we have the spiritual stamina and emotional energy to engage others in a meaningful way. To give generously we have to regularly receive from the One with bountiful grace and infinite wisdom. Jesus Christ is our relational engineer who, like a gifted architect, is able to build a beautiful bond between those who love, respect and serve each other. God gives relational freedom.

“You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13).

When we experience offspring who makes a wise choice with their school, spouse and vocation we enjoy the fruit from our relational investment. Your unselfish service does not go unnoticed by your heavenly Father. He sees your care and commitment, and will honor your efforts. So, do not grow tired of teaching truth in your circles of influence. Stay true to sow seeds of righteousness in your relationships that mean the most. In God’s time, you will be overcome with gratitude—as you experience a robust relational harvest!

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9).

How can I best invest in relationships that honor the Lord and serve them?

Related Readings: 1 Peter 4:10; Romans 12:10; Ephesians 4:2; Hebrews 10:24

Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God