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Is it hard for you to show kindness to certain people in your life? Better yet, is there anyone that you love out of obligation rather than out of the love of Christ?

Listen, I think most of us have been there. Despite our best efforts, we don’t get along with everyone and we may not like everyone that we’re called to love.

But the good news is that even when we find it hard to love certain people, God can help us show grace and mercy anyway.

There are keys to loving others well that can go a long way in improving your interactions with others. Allow me to share a little wisdom with you for a moment.

Relationships require intentional tending

Connecting with others can be difficult when we do not have the proper perspective in place. Think about it: If you were to trade places with the people in your life, how would you view your presence in their lives? Are you able to love with the love of Christ, or is your love based on their actions? 

I understand how difficult it can be to deal with people who seem to constantly bump up against your values and beliefs. Sometimes, relationships are hard simply because of the changing seasons of life. Take a closer look at the different relationships in your life. Which ones do you need to be more intentional about despite the frustration they may bring?

Relationships require the best version of you

Relationships can suffer when you are not your best self. The weight of life can present as exhaustion, overwhelm, and irritability. Different seasons in life may cause you to run on empty, but when you notice that you’re pouring from an empty cup, it’s time to take a step back and pour into yourself first. 

If you don’t know where to begin, go back to the basics. Make room for God through prayer and time spent reading His Word. As you take care of yourself spiritually, take care of yourself physically by getting enough rest at night, drinking enough water, exercising, and making time for your hobbies and passions. Do the inner work so that you can cultivate your life and your relationships.

Relationships require adjustments along the way

Life’s ebbs and flows can significantly impact relationships. And what worked in one season more than likely will not work for all. The way that you make time for those who matter to you will look differently over time, but it will always require intention. 

There may be some people that you’re used to seeing all the time, only to find that it’s time to create distance for the sake of the relationship. Alternatively, there may be other relationships that felt strained, but now you feel called to pour into them. Be clear in your communication with others so that you leave no room for confusion.

As things shift, it’s important to be intentional about making time for those who matter to you and setting boundaries when you need to put a little space in. 

If there is someone in your life that God is calling you to make time for, be intentional about being present for them. You may be the only person to show them the love that God first showed you.

Highlights from Today’s Episode

  • Relationships require intentional tending
  • Relationships require the best version of you
  • Relationships require adjustments along the way

Related Resources

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Let’s Talk!

  1. Who are you being called to be kind to in this season?
  2. How can you be more present in your relationships?
  3. How can you better communicate your intentions with your people?

 

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