One might ask, how does discipline apply to relationships? With Valentine’s Day coming up, it’s a good idea to think differently about the relationships in our lives for which we normally buy a card or give flowers as a token of our love. Think about growth and improvement in the quality of our relationships. Even the best relationships can improve because as people grow, learn, and experience life’s challenges individually, their relationships must also shift and grow to accommodate the changes.
This is also a good time to revisit relationships that have been strained or estranged because of betrayal, disappointments, heartaches, or mistakes. Even if the relationship will not be restored, forgiveness and closure can occur when regret and repentance are expressed in sincerity. If we are too proud, stubborn, or angry to say sorry or to forgive, we carry these weights with us in every existing and future relationship. People who have released the burden of unforgiveness, grudges, and bitterness can tell you that the freedom, release, and peace that you gain is indescribable. Surprisingly, a great weight is released when you forgive, even if the offense seemed to be unforgiveable. So, whether it’s your Ex, your child, your spouse, your neighbor, or a friend, this is a good time to forgive and move on to greener pastures.
Ah, you might say, I am not in an intimate relationship, this is still a good time to celebrate every other relationship in your life and to be thankful for them. By doing so you make room for new friends or even a new intimate relationship. Who knows whether the future holds a new relationship that will change the course of your life. The Bible says, ‘the person who wants friends must be friendly’ so be friendly.
The greatest claim to friendship is also found in the Bible. Abraham was called a friend of God. If you can attain that level of friendship all other relationships and friendships are blessed indeed.
May the Lord bless all of the relationships in your life, may you be known as a friend of God and may all of the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 be exhibited in all of your relationships.
