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Building Healthy Relationships
God created us to be in relationship with others. Those relationships include parents, children, partners, friends, church members, coworkers, neighbors, among others. To be human is to feel a strong emotional connection with another. But how do we build healthy relationships that will last? The Bible has a lot of advice about building life-giving relationships. Our Summer series will equip us with biblical principles we can use with the most meaningful and important relationships in our lives so they can grow stronger, healthier, and closer. With effort and intentionality, you can build a deep connection with your loved ones this summer.
May 31
It Is Not Good for the Human to be Alone
As humans we were created to be in relationship with one another. Relationships are both difficult and meaningful. Regardless of our age or personality type, we all need to be in healthy relationships whether with parents, children, friends, or partners. From the very beginning God created us to be in relationship with others. But why? What’s the divine purpose of our relationships? How has that purpose been misunderstood throughout the centuries?
Reflection Questions: How does a deeper understanding of the creation of humans influence your view on relationships? Do you agree “it’s not good for the human to be alone”? Why or why not? What are the most meaningful relationships in your life?
June 7
Don’t Commit Relationship Overdraft
People express and receive love differently. Gary Chapman famously called them Love Languages. To speak another’s language fills up their Love Bank. To tear down or hurt them withdraws from their Love Bank. The goal is not the have an overdraft in the relationship. How can we achieve that goal? By following the advice of Paul to the Philippians church.
Reflection Questions: What are your love languages? What are the love languages of the important people in your life? What is the level in your Love Bank? What about those who are close to you? How might you raise their Love Bank level this week?
June 14
Fighting Fairly in Times of Conflict
Colossians 3:12-15; Ephesians 4:25-32
Traditional wedding vows remind us that our relationships will go through sickness, for worse times, and will be poorer. We have no illusion that relationships will always be happily ever after with no problems. Conflict are inevitable. Healthy relationships know how to fight fair in times of conflict. What does it mean to “fight fair”? What does scripture say about conflict? How might disagreements strengthen a relationship when both parties fight fairly?
Reflection Questions: What “unfair tactics” do you use during a time of conflict? Do you think conflict is healthy or unhealthy in a marriage? Why? Reflect on a previous disagreement you had in a relationship. What would you do differently if you had the chance?
June 21and 28
A Two Part Sermon: Repentance and Reconciliation
Chris Andersen
July 5
Biblical Tools for Healthy Relationships
The Bible has a lot to say about how to build healthy relationships with one another. In our last Sunday of this series, we will explore several of these biblical tools. Relationships may be hard, but they aren’t rocket science. Healthy long-lasting relationships take time, effort, and intentionality. Implementing the biblical advice Paul gives in Romans will help also.
Reflection Questions: Which of these tools are most used in your current relationships? Which ones would you like to develop more? What relationships in your life would you like to strengthen with these tools?