Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Encouragement: What it Takes to Maintain a Relationship

Tiger Woods is a famous Golfer. Now he has become infamous with his numerous mistresses. It is so sickening to hear and see all that has happened in his life and how he is now determined to save his marriage, even bidding bye to his beloved sport, though it is too late when his wife is planning to file for divorce!.

Let's be honest. No one wants to experience the pain and embarassment of a broken relationship. We would much rather have things go well between us and others. But good associations are not easy to maintain. In fact, it requires a diligent effort from all the people involved. As we take the necessary steps, it will help to promote the health and stability of the relationships that we have.

* Talk Openly: It's very important that we freely and regularly share our thoughts and feelings with one another. When we do, it helps us to be more understanding. It gives us the ability to know each other better and to respond in the ways that we should.

* Communicate Honestly: The Bible instructs us to get rid of all deceit and hypocrisy (1Peter 2:1). It also says that we should not lie to one another (Colossians 3:9). Therefore, we should be honest in everything we do and say. This makes it possible for us to trust one another, and it binds us closer together.

* Respect Each Other: Having the esteem of others is fundamental to our personal well-being. We don't feel good about ourselves unless others think that we are important. That's why friends and loved ones who care about us are so vital. They affirm our worth. When personal regard is mutually expressed, it causes us to respond to one another with a warmhearted acceptance. And this acceptance is maintained as we continue to honor one another (Romans 12:10).

* Resolve Your Anger: The Bible says, "Do not let the sun go down on your wrath" (Ephesians 4:26). Our anger should be dealt with as quickly as possible. Before the day is over, we should go to the one who has offended us and clear it up. Not only will we sleep better, but problems will be handled before they have time to grow.

* Be Patient: We need to overlook one another's imperfections. According to the Bible, we have to be patient making allowances for one another's faults (Colossians 3:13). No one is excluded; all of us have flaws in our character. Instead of judging others and being critical, we should be humble and tolerant. If we are, it will help to maintain our ties with others.

* Share One Another's Problems: Let's face it. We need each other-especially when we have problems. It's true that each of us has the responsibility to handle his own troubles, but there comes a time when we all need the help of a friend. In fact, the Bible tells us that we should share each other's burdens and in this way we obey the Lord's command (Galatians 6:2). When we share each other's problems, we show that we care-making our relationship much more secure.

* Give Constructive Criticism: The Bible says that open rebuke is better than secret love (Proverbs 27:5). We may be reluctant to confront someone about a particular fault, but it is more loving to say something to him than to keep quiet and allow him to continue on as he is. Truthful and loving criticism has its goal the best interests of the other person. Although this kind of criticism hurts, it is the pain of friendship. By helping one another this way, we show that we really care. Through constructive criticism we become better people. And as a result, our relationships are improved.

* Serve One Another: Rather than asking what we can get, we should be asking what we can give. Instead of seeking to please ourselves, we should be seeking to please each other (Romans 15:2). This attitude recognizes that selfishness only ruins a relationship, but self-sacrifice builds it up. When we serve one another, our relationship is maintained and everyone involved benefits.

Yes, these maintenance procedures are very important. If we faithfully follow them they will help keep a relationship strong.

Be Encouraged,

A.Othniel
(www.aothniel.net)

><> Letter # 40 (13. 12. 2009)

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