What are you building?
“Do your best to come to me quickly, for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry. I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments. Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message. At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
2 Timothy 4:9-18 NIV
There is a big difference between someone leaving and someone being sent.
People will abandon you, people will abuse you, but the choice is up to you to build the right relationships and break off the toxic ones.
God doesn’t call people to fight with each other but to fight for each other.
The same resource the enemy uses to harm you God will use to bless you : PEOPLE
1.) Build equity in the right relationships
Relationships are deposits or withdrawals, are you making deposits or withdrawals?
You can follow Jesus well when you realize all He makes are deposits into you to build equity in your relationship with him.
Stop making withdrawals when you have never made a deposit. Some relationships are not flourishing because you haven’t added any value, or encouraged, or been a blessing or have tried to help.
The right word at the right time is like a custom-made piece of jewelry, And a wise friend’s timely reprimand is like a gold ring slipped on your finger. Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing!
Proverbs 25:11-13 MSG
2.) Build Trust in your relationships
Trust is the foundation for all healthy relationships.
All healthy relationships are built on trust, respect, and communication.
We trust each other when we are open, honest, vulnerable, and transparent.
Transparency builds trust.
An open rebuke is better than hidden love! Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.
Proverbs 27:5-6 NLT
3.) Build Longevity in your relationships
My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying. Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.
Proverbs 3:1-4 NLT
