Matthew 22:36-40
“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?“
And He said to him, “ ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.‘ “This is the great and foremost commandment. “The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.‘ “On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.“
As we saw yesterday, the basis for strong relationships is treating others as we want to be treated. When you think about your friends, relatives, and associates, do you see any of the following characteristics of a strong relationship?
Enjoyment and satisfaction.
Loyalty.
Truthfulness.
Prayer support.
Forgiveness.
Encouragement.
Support.
Generosity.
Respect and honor.
Acceptance of who he or she is.
True concern for the other‘s welfare.
Protection of each other from emotional, physical, or spiritual harm.
Most of us would have to say we don‘t have all of of these characteristics in every relationship. But is there a single quality on the list that you would not want someone to display toward you?
Do you have relationship problems in your marriage? With your children? With your employer or employees? At church or in your neighborhood?
Jesus made the solution clear. He commanded us to treat others as we want to be treated. It takes work and prayer, but God always gives us the resources to obey.
Are you willing to work at building strong relationships? Remember that Jesus commanded it; therefore obedience is not optional. Ask God to give you the patience and wisdom you will need to mend or strengthen the relationships in your life.
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