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Relationship on Purpose: Seeing People Correctly Lesson 4
Last month we looked at the importance of seeing people correctly. Our relationships with people impact every area of our lives. We will conclude this portion of the lesson by considering how open we are to the people who cross our path. Sometimes all a person needs is an opportunity to have a good relationship. Sometimes that is not possible based on the choices some people make for their lives.
2 Corinthians 6:14 NLT
"Don't team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?"
Make an effort to view others positively.
In making an effort to view others positively, we will come across people whose intention is toward evil. But, before you judge anyone unfairly, give them an opportunity to reveal who they really are.
*Allow people the opportunity to hang themselves so you don't have to do anything.
Proverbs 12:13 NLT
"The wicked are trapped by their own words, but the godly escape such trouble."
Proverbs 22:5 GWT
"A devious person has thorns and traps ahead of him. Whoever guards himself will stay far away from them."
Make every effort to let them know that you have given them a chance.
*Once someone has shown you who they are, don't continue to put yourself in their line of fire.
1 John 4:1 NLT & GWT
"Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world."
"Dear friends, don't believe all people who say they have the Spirit. Instead, test them. See whether the spirit they have is from God, because there are many false prophets in the world."
1 Thessalonians 5:21 NASB
"But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good."
Make the choice to change how you interact with others.
*Be willing to show people the love of Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 3:12 ISV
"May the Lord greatly increase your love for each other and for all people, just as we love you."
Matthew 7:12 NASB
"In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets."
*Build on the strength of others.
2 Corinthians 13:10b NLT
"For I want to use the authority the Lord has given me to strengthen you, not to tear you down."
*Use your spiritual gifts to benefit others.
1 Corinthians 13:2 NLT
"If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God's secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn't love others, I would be nothing."
1 Corinthians 16:14 BSB "Do everything in love."
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Questions:
1. Are you willing to show the love of Jesus to those you come in contact with?
2. Are you considerate of others or are you self-focused?
3. Are you using what God has blessed you with to be a blessing to others?
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