While reading
the YouVersion devotional of the day based on Phil. 1:3, there was an extra
devotional that talked about cultivating healthy relationships. It blessed me
so much that I had to share it with you all. Below is the excerpt of the
devotional.
Imagine
planting a seed. If you want the seed to grow into a flower, you have to care
for it properly by giving it enough of what it needs to live.
Now think of the people who are there for you
during hard times, the ones who encourage you, and the people you enjoy
experiencing life with. These relationships are much like seeds- we need to
care for them properly if we want them to not only grow, but thrive.
I thank my God every time I remember you. Phil. 1:3 (NIV)
In the Bible, we learn that Paul started a church in Philippi. While he lived with the church, the people were generous and kind to him, partnering with Paul to share the Gospel. But even when Paul eventually continued on with his travels, the Philippian church continued to support him.
And so, after he was out in prison, Paul wrote them a letter. He could have chosen to write about his troubles, but instead, Paul prayed for his friends, and encouraged them to continue to live God-honouring lives in the face of hardships and persecution. Paul recognised the sacrifices they were making, and chose to appreciate and encourage them.
In a similar way, we can help our relationships grow by expressing gratitude and appreciation for the people who impact us. This could look like praying for them, giving them a word of encouragement, or going out of our way to serve them. It could mean slowing down to truly listen to them, or expressing thanks for something that might otherwise go unnoticed.
God gave us the desire to pursue relationships with people around us. This means that, like Paul and the Philippians, we have an opportunity to encourage one another and pursue God together. But in order to do this- we have to be willing to care for our relationships and be intentional about helping them grow and remain healthy. And one of the best ways we can do this is by pausing to appreciate the people who support and encourage us. So today, take some time to thank God for the people who’ve poured into you, and then intentionally pray for them.
I hope this
song encourages you to pray for them- Be blessed by Bishop Paul Morton
P.S. Thank you to everyone who has been there for me, poured into me, and supported the Sage Onomsky blog. I’m gonna be praying for each and everyone of you. Stay blessed!
