Life is about relationships, the rest is just details

"Life is about relationships, the rest is just details"

When I first heard this statement, I was taken aback. I heard it at a marriage seminar called the DNA of relationships. It is from a book by the same name written by Gary Smalley and Robert Paul. (I highly recommend both the book and the conference). I was processing the statement and my first reaction was of disbelief; I thought...is that true? After a few minutes of consideration, the Lord brought to mind the time that Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was. His answer is recorded in Matthew 22:34-38: The Greatest Commandment Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?"Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." I realized that the statement about relationships was true. Love is a key component of every relationship. We exist because God created us for relationship with him. He also created Eve because it "was not good that man should be alone" In addition to our relationship with Him as God He wants us to have relationship with each other. In fact Jesus said that all the law and the prophets hang on the two great commandments. When I reflected on the importance of relationships I was a bit sad because I know that I lived a major part of my life not being that concerned about them. Either with God or with people. In fact I generally avoided them. It seemed so difficult to maintain them and at times they were downright messy. Seeking God was not a high priority or even something I thought was available. In general It required too much time and vulnerability to seek relationships. Dealing with people meant navigating other peoples personalities, attitudes and quirks. And who likes conflict or rejection? It seemed much easier to me to skate thru life avoiding deep connection with anyone. That way you could avoid being hurt or entangled. I know I lived that way for many years. So what changed you may ask.? It was God's involvement of course. The difference for me was that the 2nd greatest commandment depended upon the 1rst. God wooed me and rescued me and I fell deeply in love with him., I really began to pursue him and value my relationship with him. As that relationship developed, it slowly transformed my heart toward others. Over time God has given me true compassion and care for other people. This was not my natural inclination, but a response to his love of me that changed me. I thank God that I now have several deep relationships in my life. I am also more caring and responsive to people I encounter. I still have a long way to go, but I now understand the value God places on how we treat one another. Unfortunately, I know that many people have no deep relationships, but life without them is dry and barren.

God has so much more for all of us. Relationships are a big part of the more. It is worth the risk to truly love God with our whole heart and other people as ourselves! God created us as beings who desperately need him and others. We are wired that way. If you are living a life of isolation or simply lacking depth in your relationships, don't try to fix that without first going to God. You must begin by seeking relationship with God first. You will never be disappointed in him. He wants you to live life to the full and the fullness of life is experienced in relationships.

We are in a season of turmoil in this country. This is placing severe strain on relationships. Lets all keep our focus on loving God and others. Keep a watchful eye for those who could use an encouraging word or just be there to listen to them and care. Relationships are a messy business, but it is worth it!

Remember, Life is about relationships, the rest is just details.