Kingdom Approach To Relationship - Relate Knowledgeably

In today’s teachings, we will reiterate some truths that you might already be familiar with. It will benefit us to be reminded so that we live conscious of them as often as we can. Relating knowledgeably is an aspect of relationship that should not be taken for granted at any time. I will say this, do not be quick to relate without purpose. Whether we agree or not, every relationship serves a purpose. That is the beauty of relationship be it with God or man. As we hear these truths, believe them and apply them, we will enjoy relationships at a whole new level. You will fine tune your approach to relationships. Amen!

You probably have heard that in your journey to maximizing relationship you will encounter 3 categories of people. Confidants, constituents and comrades. These categories are scriptural and it will be wisdom on your part to fully embrace these truths. Briefly, confidants are people who are committed to you as a person. Confidants love you (as a person) unconditionally; whether you are up or down. They will correct you when you are wrong and applaud you when you are right. They will certainly help you become all that God wants you to become and will add into your life so that you can be a blessing to others. Scriptural examples include the cases of

- David and Jonathan; 1 Samuel 18:1-4

- Ruth and Naomi; Ruth 1:16-18

- Jesus /John (John referred to Himself as the one whom Jesus loved)

Practical – A child, parent, sibling etc. can be your confidant.

The second category mentioned are constituents. People who are committed to what you represent/have/where you are going/vision. Constituents are for the course/vision, not for you (as a person). They will labor with you in order to achieve the goal, but always remember that it is not about you, but the vision. Constituents will leave you if your vision does not further their agenda. Their behavior will confuse you if you do not pay attention. You can mistake them for confidants (remember - their attraction is your mission/vision, not you). If Constituents meet someone else who can further their agenda, they can decide to leave you because it had never been about you in the first place. Matthew 16:13-16; Psalm 55:12-15.

Practical – Church members (they come because of what they can benefit from the different groups in church, not for the message, organization members, etc.)

The last category, which is the third group of people to look out for are comrades. Comrades are not for you, neither are they for your vision. They are against what you are against; meaning, you both have a common enemy and once that enemy is defeated, they will leave you immediately. Guess what? They will stay with you for as long as that enemy is present. Scriptural examples include Pharisees and Sadducees.

Practical – For as long as we can defeat the enemy of poverty, sickness, etc.

If I am hurt, I can count on you standing with me in court as witness (it is not about you but it is about the common enemy).

What can we learn from these three categories of people?

-        Choose wisely

-        Do not get bitter

-        Understand times and seasons

-        Learn to handle people evenly (godly)

-        Take time to understand why God brings people your way

-        Understand your place in the life of others

-        Relate with your vision in mind

Although these might be familiar information to you, do not handle it casually because there is a tendency to make mistakes in these areas. Listen to it and remind yourself over and over again until you get to a place where you can comfortably and confidently say that you are relating knowledgeably evidenced by your relationship decisions and outcomes. Amen!