The term “relationship” is used quite often in our society today. I have been thinking about this word the last few days and decided to write this quarter’s article on relationships. According to the Webster’s college dictionary relationship is: 1-a connection, association, or involvement. 2-connection between persons by blood or marriage; kinship. 3-an emotional or connection between people. As Kathy and I discussed this article, we both felt like the number one factor that affects any relationship is the amount of time that is spent on the relationship. Kathy and I just returned from an overnight trip we took together, away from our careers, children, housework, schoolwork, ect. to keep our relationship strong. This same weekend, we spent time with our family at a family reunion, to garnish that relationship.

While reading an article in Ministries Today, by David Kinnaman, vice president and strategic leader of the Barna Group, Ltd., in Ventura, California, I found several interesting facts about ministers. 1- Many ministers say they struggle with their personal relationships. Research showed that a majority of ministers admit that they have difficulty making and maintaining genuine friendships. One out of six ministers said they felt under-appreciated in their ministry. My question to you is, do you work on deep, accountable, and enjoyable relationships with those you love? We must maintain and prioritize our time so we can spend TIME with those that God has placed around us to enjoy. I know I try my very best to have all my work done in the office before the kids get home from school so I can spend time with them and my wife in the evenings. In order to make this happen I have to get my Bible study, prayer and exercise in by that time. Many people place a greater emphasis on their careers than their wife and children.

What tools or methods do you use to evaluate yourself as accurately as possible? As Christians, we should be using the Word of God! God deserves nothing less than your best, and your family does as well. Romans 5:11 (NLT) says, “So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God—all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God.” How are we going to have a relationship with anyone if we do not spend time with them? I have preached for hundreds of pastors over the years. I have built several kinds of relationships with them. Some I speak to throughout the year, some at conferences, and some I only speak to when I minister for them. As an evangelist, I have tried to become friends with many ministers and people around the world, but it takes two to make any relationship work. From contacting each other and returning phone calls, to writing letters or emails. Jesus Christ has made us friends of God, just like the song Israel Houghton sings titled “I am a friend of God”. Being a friend of God is very important, but it is also important to have friends and family that you spend time with and enjoy the gifts and uniqueness each of them bring into a relationship.

Let us get involved, stay connected, and encourage each other in the things of God. Many around us are waiting for a Godly relationship or friendship with us. Are we going to be ready? Colossians 1:28-29 (NLT), So everywhere we go, we tell everyone about Christ. We warn them and teach them with all the wisdom God has given us, for we want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ. 29I work very hard at this, as I depend on Christ’s mighty power that works within me. If it was important for Paul, it should be important for us to work on our relationships.

© 1999 Large Ministries, Inc.
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