Relationship Realities

Introduction

God created each of us to have a close relationship with Him and others around us. In fact, it’s so important that it’s mentioned 613 times in the Old Testament. Jesus summarized this with two simple commands: love God and love others. This kind of love is much more than mere feelings. In this series, we’ll look at how to learn to really love others the way God intended and how He will help us when we do.

Move Over: The Root of Relationship Conflicts

April 19, 2020 • Rusty Coram

We are created in God’s image and, therefore, designed for close friendship with God and others. We run into problems when we rely on our own desires, demands and resources to make this happen. By surrendering ourselves to God and His design, we can build strong and lasting friendships.

Move Deeper: Why We Hide

April 26, 2020 • Rusty Coram

Most of us say we value authenticity. This sounds good until we are called to live it out. Being vulnerable carries risks that can be costly. Hiding behind walls is much safer, but those same walls prevent us from knowing others and being known.

Move Closer: The Art of Listening Well

May 3, 2020 • Rusty Coram

Listening plays a critical role in healthy relationships. It’s the single most important tool we have to learn about the lives and perspectives of others. That’s why we have two ears and only one mouth!

Move Through It: From Broken to Whole

May 10, 2020 • Rusty Coram

Conflict is inevitable in any close relationship. What we do with that conflict makes a big difference. We can tend to ignore it or focus completely on it. There is a better way.

Move Inward: End the Blame Game

May 17, 2020 • Rusty Coram

It is easier and more fun to blame others when something isn’t right. This isn’t the attitude or behavior that God is looking for.

Move Together: Diffuse the Conflict

May 24, 2020 • Rusty Coram

Over time, our hurts can cause us to develop ways to cope that seem good, but really don’t deal with the core issues. We can create a semblance of peace, but it’s really covering up instead of clearing up.

Move On: Leave the Past in the Past

May 31, 2020 • Rusty Coram

Forgiveness is necessary for healthy relationships. It isn’t easy, but the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Move As One: Together We Stand

June 7, 2020 • Rusty Coram

We are living in unprecedented times. Emotion, frustration and societal tension have reached a tipping point and it’s crucial that we respond well. The Bible is the one truth that can arm us with what we need to move forward in a way that honors God and ALL of His people.

Move with Purpose: Don’t Give Up

June 14, 2020 • Rusty Coram

We’ll wrap up this series on relationships with a summary of what we have covered, using the story of Rusty’s family – especially how God worked in his Dad’s life.