Growing Closer

Any successful relationship, whether it is at work or church, or with a neighbor, a parent, or a spouse, is built upon the biblical truth that God designed each of us with purpose -- the purpose to connect to Him, grow in Him, live in community, serve Him, and tell the world of Him.

We need to realize we were created and placed together for relationships and lifelong companionship. We sometimes find that some of our relationships are difficult, complicated, and exhausting, but once you understand God’s plan regarding your relationships (friend, boss, neighbor, spouse, etc.), it takes on new meaning. All of us were formed for God’s family. God made an incredible promise about the gathering of even just two believers: “For where two or three come together in My name, I am there with them.” (Matthew 18:20)

When we discover that God brings us together, whether in friendship or companionship, God is already in that friendship or marriage working to transform and direct the two of you into fulfilling His purpose. Your friendship, working relationship, neighborhood community, church, or marriage is a lab for learning how to love like Jesus loves. Within relationships, God has created an opportunity for us to develop a true genuine and authentic sharing of life with another human being.

If relationships are to move from a superficial level to a deeper level, it will require genuine, heart-to-heart, gut-level sharing where you get honest about who you are and what’s going on in your life. This happens when you can share your hurts, reveal your feelings, confess your failures, disclose your doubts, admit your fears, acknowledge your weaknesses, and ask each other for help.

Don’t forget one of those important relationships we will celebrate this weekend… our MOTHERS.