Irritations, disappointment and hurt feelings are the little foxes that destroy relationships (Song of Solomon 2:15). Satisfaction is the anchor in a nurturing bond, and helps to minimize our reaction to one another in negative ways.
We cannot change our friend's/child's/spouse's behavior,
but we can adjust our focus and accept their idiosyncrasies as part of who they
are. We can find things to love about one another that far outweighs the
frustrations.
When we are content with our life and strong in our
spiritual walk with the Lord, it is much easier to ignore the devil's lies that
blow up an issue out of proportion (1 Timothy 6:6). We learn to ask questions
to ascertain the facts, rather than reacting on assumptions, which we make.
If we call each other names - even in jest - we set up a
negative downward spiral that Satan can use to influence our feelings. These
derogatory labels will also wound the soul of the one we tag with them. This
applies to our children, grandchildren and adult relationships as well.
God calls us to lift up, encourage and compliment each
other. We use positive words, feelings and body language to deepen rather than
to tear down our relationships. Showing gratitude is another way to grow
positive feelings and attitudes toward one another.
Praying together and openly sharing our honest feelings
with each other - in a non-condemning, informative manner - will increase our
love for one another (Romans 8:37).
When we humble our self under His mighty hand (1 Peter
5:6) and lift up to Him our thoughts, feelings and choices, God provides all of
our needs - physical, emotional, relational, financial, mental, spiritual.
As we understand that we are all products of our nurture
and relationships - or the lack of either of these - from the family of our
childhood, we can have more compassion on what we consider our friend's,
child's or mate's shortcomings, which will increase our feelings of intimacy
with one another.
Prayer:
Father God, help us to see that our security in this life
comes from You alone. Human relationships are fickle at best, and are
influenced by hurts, unforgiveness and bitterness, which grow over time. We
trust only in You with our current and future provision in every area of our
life - body, soul and spirit. Remind us that this life is but a vapor, and we
will soon enter eternity with You (James 4:14).
Help us to realize that as we love You above all else and
obey Your precepts, our life will line up with Your will as You shower us with
blessings, even in the midst of our trials. An intimate relationship with our Savior
and Lord will also improve our relationship with one another (Acts 4:12). Help
us to forgive those who hurt us and spitefully use us, and to share with
these wounded people Your Agape love and acceptance.
Thought for the Day:
We can prevent our heart from succumbing to
discontentment and irritations by trusting in God's love and provision for us.
He delights in us and includes us in His glorious Kingdom, completing us and transforming us with His Godliness.
- Matthew 6:26-30; Luke 12:32; John 14:1
