Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #16 — Interaction Blueprint

Picture: Counsel #16 — Interaction Blueprint CR 47.1

What if every time you hung out with someone, you both grew closer to God? That’s what godly socializing is all about. The Bible teaches us who to spend time with, and how to interact in social situations. Our relationships should strengthen our own walk with Christ and help someone else grow in theirs. CR 47.2

So, how do you actually do that? Start by being intentional. Don’t let every conversation stay on the surface, such as talking about summer plans or which celebrity has the “best” body. Ask your friends how their heart is doing, not only questions about what they’re watching or listening to. Pray together, invite them to join a service project or to come to church with you.^[47] Most importantly, speak encouragement to them instead of criticism, and be real and upfront about your faith. If your friend is losing hope about a particular situation, share a verse that’s been helping you, ensuring them that God is still with them. When you choose to socialize with spiritual purpose, your relationships won’t just be fun - they’ll have life-giving power. CR 47.3

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17 NIV CR 47.4

“To such, words of kindness and of affection are welcome as the smile of angels; a strong, helpful grasp of the hand of a true friend is worth more than gold and silver.” Ellen White in My Life Today , p. 178 CR 47.5

Reflect: Do you reflect Christ in the way you speak and interact? CR 47.6