I know at one time or another we all have wondered how relationships work. Or, we have wondered if it is even possible to know how relationships work. We were not taught the importance of relationship building, nor was it modeled for most of us.
No one is an island. All our relationships are integrated in one way or another, the question is are they integrated in a healthy way or not? Ephesians chapter 5 verses 22-33 is the longest most detailed section of scripture dealing with marriage. But we often overlook that this section of scripture about marriage and Christ’s Church is bookended by two very important scriptures which broaden the scope beyond just marriage relationship. Please take some time to read Ephesians 5:21-6:4. Without understanding this section of scripture we cannot fully understand how relationships work. Now take some time to read the following and see how it connects with this passage in Ephesians 5.
When Relationships Don’t Work:
If we don’t receive His love, we can’t love Jesus (1 John 4:19)
If we don’t love Jesus, we can’t love His Church (His Body)
If we don’t love His Church, we can’t love ourselves
If we don’t love ourselves, we can’t love one another
If we don’t love one another, husbands can’t love their wives
If we don’t love one another, wives can’t respect their husbands
If husbands and wives don’t love one another children can’t honor their parents
If children don’t honor their parents then children miss God’s inheritance
If children miss God’s inheritance than whole generations are lost
The good news, is that at anytime within this dysfunctional relational structure the grace of God can turn all things around. It all begins with receiving His love.
When Relationships Work:
If we receive Jesus’ love, we can then love Him
If we love Jesus we will love His Church
If we love His Church we will love ourselves
If we love ourselves, we will love one another
If we love one another, husbands will love their wives
If we love one another, wives will respect their husbands
If husbands and wives love one another, children will honor their parents
If children honor their parents, then children will inherit God’s promises
If children inherit God’s promises, then whole generations will walk in His light!
“And hope does not disappoint us because, God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.” Romans 5:5
Have you received His Love? It is the foundation for all healthy relationships.
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