Building Strong Relationships Through Love and Humility

 

Summary

In my sermon, I began by addressing the recent events that had unfolded the previous night, which had significant implications for Israel. I emphasized the importance of prayer, especially in light of biblical prophecy, and the need for us not to panic but to trust in God's sovereignty. I reminded the congregation that we must always be prepared, both spiritually and in our daily lives, for whatever may come our way.

I then transitioned into the second part of our relationship series, "All You Need Is Love," challenging the notion that love alone is sufficient for healthy relationships. I pointed out that while love is a crucial ingredient, it is not the only one needed. We require the guidance of the Word of God, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to change and grow.

I delved into Philippians chapter two, where the Apostle Paul provides insight into cultivating a powerful community and harmonious relationships. I highlighted four "relationship grenades" that can sabotage our relationships: competing desires, prideful ego, constant criticism, and not making Christ our first priority.

Competing desires, where one must win at all costs, can crush meaningful relationships. This competitive spirit often stems from a prideful ego, which convinces us that change is necessary for everyone but ourselves. I shared my personal struggles with pride and how it can lead to a lack of intimacy with Christ, resulting in a heightened ego and a tendency to lash out.

Constant criticism is another relationship grenade. It's essential to understand that unity does not require uniformity in thought but rather a shared set of values and a heart for peace. We must be willing to affirm and validate others, even when we disagree, because our shared love for Christ and His church is what truly binds us.

Lastly, I emphasized that all healthy, long-term relationships must begin with a deep-seated, prioritized relationship with Jesus Christ. It is from understanding His love and grace that we can extend the same to others in our lives.

Key Takeaways:

1. Prayer is a foundational response to world events, especially those involving Israel, as it aligns our hearts with God's purposes and reminds us of His constant control over the universe. We must pray without ceasing, never panic, and always be prepared for Christ's return or our meeting with Him. [09:57]

2. Love is necessary but not sufficient on its own for healthy relationships. We need the Word of God, the Holy Spirit's empowerment, and a willingness to embrace change and growth. This openness to transformation is crucial for our relationships to thrive. [13:38]

3. Competing desires and the need to win at all costs can destroy relationships. True maturity involves recognizing that life is not just about us and that we must be willing to give up something for the greater good of the relationship. [20:14]

4. A prideful ego can be detrimental to our relationships, leading to a 'me first' mentality. Humility, on the other hand, is not thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less, which can pour fresh oil into the machinery of our relationships. [26:18]

5. Constant criticism can be a controlling tool that damages relationships. Instead, we should focus on shared values and a heart for peace, understanding that different opinions do not make someone our enemy. This approach fosters unity and harmony. [33:06]

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Philippians 2:1-8 (NIV)
> "Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!"

2. Psalm 121:4 (NIV)
> "Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep."

3. Psalm 122:6 (NIV)
> "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May those who love you be secure.'"

#### Observation Questions
1. What are the three things the Bible tells us to do when thinking about the future, especially in relation to Israel? ([09:57])
2. According to Philippians 2:1-8, what mindset should we have in our relationships with one another?
3. What are the four "relationship grenades" mentioned in the sermon that can sabotage our relationships? ([18:47])
4. How does the sermon describe the impact of a prideful ego on relationships? ([26:18])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to pray for the peace of Israel, and how does this align our hearts with God's purposes? ([09:57])
2. How does the concept of humility in Philippians 2:1-8 challenge our natural inclinations in relationships?
3. In what ways can competing desires and a need to win at all costs destroy meaningful relationships? ([20:14])
4. How does constant criticism act as a "relationship grenade," and what alternative approach does the sermon suggest? ([33:06])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your prayer life. How can you incorporate more intentional prayers for world events, especially those involving Israel, into your daily routine? ([09:57])
2. Think about a current relationship where you might be holding onto a prideful ego. What steps can you take to practice humility and put others' needs before your own? ([26:18])
3. Identify a situation where you have been overly critical. How can you shift your focus to shared values and a heart for peace instead of constant criticism? ([33:06])
4. Consider a relationship where competing desires have caused conflict. What can you do to foster a win-win situation where both parties feel valued and heard? ([20:14])
5. How can you prioritize your relationship with Jesus Christ to strengthen your other relationships? What specific actions can you take this week to deepen your intimacy with Christ? ([38:36])
6. Reflect on a recent disagreement. How can you ensure that your approach to resolving conflicts aligns with the principles of humility and selflessness found in Philippians 2:1-8?
7. What is one practical way you can model the mindset of Christ in your daily interactions, especially in challenging relationships? ([39:58])

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing Prayer Amidst Global Events
Prayer is not merely a ritualistic practice but a profound way to align one's heart with the divine will, especially in times of global uncertainty. When events unfold that shake the very foundations of nations, such as those involving Israel, it is a call to the faithful to seek solace and guidance through prayer. This act of devotion serves as a reminder of the Almighty's omnipotence and the intricate plans He has for humanity. It is through prayer that individuals can find peace, refusing to succumb to panic, and instead preparing their hearts for whatever the future holds, be it the return of Christ or their personal encounter with Him. Prayer fortifies the spirit, equipping believers to face the tumult of the world with a steadfast faith and a readiness to act according to divine guidance [07:40].

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." - Romans 12:12

Reflection: How can you incorporate a dedicated time for prayer into your daily routine to seek God's perspective on current world events?

Day 2: Love and Beyond in Relationships
While love is the cornerstone of any relationship, it alone cannot sustain the complexities of human interaction. Healthy relationships require a multifaceted approach that includes adherence to the teachings found in the Scriptures, the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, and a commitment to personal growth and change. It is through this holistic approach that relationships can flourish, as individuals learn to navigate the challenges of life together, guided by a higher purpose and mutual respect. Embracing the full counsel of God and the work of the Holy Spirit leads to a deeper understanding of love and how it can be effectively applied in every interaction with others [13:38].

"Let all that you do be done in love." - 1 Corinthians 16:14

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take this week to demonstrate love in a relationship that also incorporates spiritual growth and guidance?

Day 3: The Peril of Competing Desires
In a world that often celebrates victory at any cost, the pursuit of personal desires can become a destructive force in relationships. The maturity of an individual is tested when they are willing to set aside their own ambitions for the well-being of others. This selfless act is not a sign of weakness but a testament to one's character and understanding of the greater good. Relationships thrive when individuals recognize that life is not a competition but a journey shared with others, where sacrifices are made not out of obligation but out of love and mutual respect [20:14].

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." - Philippians 2:3

Reflection: Can you identify a recent situation where competing desires caused tension, and how might you approach it differently with a mindset of humility and sacrifice?

Day 4: Humility Over Ego in Relationships
A prideful ego can be the silent killer of relationships, fostering a 'me first' mentality that erodes the foundation of trust and mutual respect. Humility, however, is the antidote to this poison, encouraging individuals to consider the needs and feelings of others before their own. It is not about diminishing one's self-worth but about elevating the value of those around us. When humility becomes the guiding principle, relationships are infused with grace, understanding, and a willingness to support one another in love and service [26:18].

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience." - Colossians 3:12

Reflection: Reflect on a relationship where your ego may have taken precedence. How can you practice humility today to strengthen that relationship?

Day 5: Unity in Diversity Through Christ
Criticism, when used as a tool for control, can fracture the unity that binds individuals together. However, when relationships are anchored in the love of Christ, there is room for diverse opinions and beliefs. Unity in the body of Christ does not demand uniformity of thought but rather a commitment to shared values and a pursuit of peace. By focusing on what unites rather than what divides, believers can build harmonious relationships that reflect the love and grace of Jesus, fostering an environment where all feel valued and understood [33:06].

"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." - 1 Peter 4:8

Reflection: How can you contribute to a spirit of unity in your community or church, even when faced with differing opinions?

Quotes

1. "I have found that almost every time I start drifting in my intimacy with Christ, my ego starts to get out of control. I get angry quickly, more offended easily... The closer I get to Christ, the more I begin to lose sight of me and what I feel like I deserve... So much of it is just getting closer to Christ and letting that mind be in us." [41:25]( | | )

2. "Jesus didn't demand his rights, even though he had some... He humbled himself. He didn't seek attention or get offended when he didn't always get his way... I have found that almost every time I start drifting in my intimacy with Christ, my ego starts to get out of control." [39:58]( | | )

3. "Whatever you are hoping to see in and through the relationships in your life won't come because you try to get everybody else to adjust... They will happen when you first begin to model and live it out for yourself first. You go first. Jesus did, and he modeled for us what it means to serve others, not to always be served." [42:45]( | | )

4. "On matters of principle, stand. On matters of preference, bend... The problem is we treat a lot of stuff that's preference as principle... Jesus knew the big picture... He never lost sight of the big picture. He never lost sight of why he was being whipped, why he was being tortured." [44:14]( | | )

5. "Every time that attitude is spilled over into my marriage, no bueno... Every time that thing is spilled over into my relationships with my brothers, every time that is spilled over into every meaningful relationship in my life, it has crushed meaningful relationships and has had forced me to rebuild and reconnect." [20:14]( | | )

6. "We have to be okay with the fact that everybody may not always see what we see or have the same opinions that we do, but what makes our relationship strong is not that we think the same thoughts, but that we share the same heart for peace." [34:39]( | | )

7. "We need the word of God to instruct us. We need the Holy Spirit to empower us to live it out. We need an openness to change and grow that will enable us. If we are not willing to change, if we think that change is good for everybody else but us, it will never work out." [13:38]( | | )

8. "Humility is not inferiority or low self-esteem. Humility is not thinking less of yourself. Humility is thinking of yourself less. Pride is like pouring sand into the gears of the machinery of your relationship... Humility is like pouring fresh oil directly into the gears of your relationship." [28:59]( | | )

9. "The sooner we get there, the better off we are all going to be. Here we go. Relationship grenades. Number one is competing desires. I got to win at all costs. No bueno, no good. It's going to kill your relationships. That's driven by ego and pride." [30:24]( | | )

10. "What is that one thing in our lives right now that if we changed it would make the most important relationships in our lives stronger? Is it a critical spirit? Is it constant complaining? Is it selfishness? Is it a competitive spirit? Is it our pride? Is it our ego?" [46:59]( | | )

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Transcript
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