Theme:   Blueprints for a Better Life - Life-Giving Relationships

This eDevotional was written by a volunteer from Timberlake Church.

Read: Proverbs 24: 26; Proverbs 27: 5-6

Think: As part of our life-giving relationships message this past weekend, one of the points Pastor Ben made was that they require honesty to enable us to grow.

Honesty is not always the easiest thing to find in a world where we all have to be so politically correct. It is sometimes hard to say anything meaningful for fear of offending people. The great thing about growth groups is that you get to know and grow with others in a safe and loving environment. This encourages a relationship that can allow for a kind of honesty that is not only loving but supports us in our areas of growth.

Sometimes I find it hard to see God’s work in my life and where I have grown or need to grow more. But through the God-centered friendship of others I have learned to trust!  I not only am able to thank God for what He has done but have the encouragement to step out into areas He’s calling me to. Many times I myself may not have even seen where God is , but through the observations of these friends I can see - and celebrate! - my progress.

These trusted people in effect hold up a mirror to me to show me the growth I have made over the time we have known each other. I have come to find it invaluable. They also help me see areas where I need more focus or where I need to grow in my walk with Christ. And by the way, they do it in a loving way.

Do: Take a few minutes to think of those you are close to and how they have grown spiritually and personally in the time that you have known them. Then share it with them somehow (email, text, Facebook or even face to face!).

Pray: Lord, we thank You for the relationships we have that allow for honesty and genuine observations in our lives. Please help us be loving and considerate to others as we live in those relationships, growing with each other towards You. Amen.