Embracing Changes for Good in Relationships: T.I.C.S.
Relationships are important. Relationships are good (Read Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). And even though they are important and good, there are still times when we don’t want to embrace the new things that come with them. Is it fear? Do we not want to change? Is it the fear of change? Tonight, we will discuss a few components that have to take place in true relationships.
Trust – “Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.”—Stephen Covey
Why is it hard to trust?
Trust equals vulnerability, we don’t like to be vulnerable.
Read Proverbs 3:5-6: If your trust is in the Lord, He will give you the ability to wisely trust others.
Identity – “The value of identity of course is that so often with it comes purpose.”—Richard Grant
We don’t like to change who we are, no matter how much we need to, but why?
Galatians 3:26; Romans 8:14-16 – I am a child of God.
Your most important part of your identity never changes.
You don’t know who you are until you know Whose you are. —Ronnie Williams
Compromise – “Let no one think that flexibility and a predisposition to compromise is a sign of weakness or a sell-out.”—Paul Kagame
Why not compromise?
I have to give of myself and trust you will do the same (thus leaving me vulnerable) …
Read Philippians 2:3-4: Show others that they matter.
Note: John 14:15: Compromise anywhere you can, but certainly not your beliefs.
Sacrifice – “The most sublime act is to set another before you.” —William Blake
We don’t like or want to give up anything (especially if we don’t like to compromise).
Read John 15:13 – If giving up my life is great love, why can’t I give up my time, money, pride, etc.?
How can we cope with change?
Reprogram from society’s thinking: Have to v. Get to Mindset
We get to grow in these areas.
Question of the Day: If we struggle with these changes, and we are meant to be agents of change what are the steps that we are taking to build relationships with those in our communities who will struggle with the same things?
Beauty and the Beast – The transition of a flourishing relationship when one learns to trust, compromise, and sacrifice to become a better person.