The Power of We

I am glad to have people in my life.

Going it alone, besides being lonely, is not the intention of God. He places us in families and churches. It is within relationship that we experience love and learn to exemplify it to the world, find our place and role in serving Him and accomplish greater things together than we can accomplish by ourselves. Synergy.

But, I have to admit that I also get frustrated with people. I am sure that there is an inevitable vice versa in the equation as well.

My guess is that most of you need relationships, all of you have relationships and, at times, experience frustration with people. It is a relief to know that God loves us despite our imperfections and He shows us how to love others in this way so we can have the time of our lives in this mixed salad of humanity in which we find ourselves.

Just as a steady diet of healthy food can lead to a healthy body, a steady habit of following the right principles can lead to healthy, vibrant relationships. Here are a few “let uses” to show us the way.

1. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23)

Discouragement can lead to other negative things, making relationships difficult. We have to keep hope alive and focus on the faithfulness of God so we can have a joyful outlook that helps others.

2. “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24)

Encouragement is not generic. We can actually consider how to uniquely encourage people. Specific, heartfelt encouragement energizes and motivates.

3. “Let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Sin, including bitterness and unforgiveness towards others, is a tangly mess. When we leave it behind we can run swift and unfettered with our eyes on the only One who is perfect in love.

4. “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.” (Galatians 6:9)

It can be hard to persevere in our endeavors with a heavy heart. But when love is put into action, good results will follow. It all comes back to watching our hearts and attitudes, doesn't it?