The Power of Relationships

Devotional week 36

Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still ‘today,’ so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.” — Hebrews 3:12–13 (NLT)

During my first training on tentmaking, I heard something that really surprised me: the number one reason people come to Christ is through relationships, friendships between those who know Jesus and those who do not yet know Him.

That hit me hard because I have always seen relationships as tiring and sometimes unnecessary. But as I dug into God’s Word, I realized that relationships have always been part of His plan. Right from the beginning, in Genesis 2:18, God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” This shows us that we were created for connection. Being in relationship with God and with others is not optional; it’s essential.

The truth is, as Christians, we are called to live differently from the world. Our culture often celebrates independence and self-sufficiency, but God calls us to a life of community. He wants us to care for each other, encourage one another, and build friendships that reflect His love.

And here’s the beautiful part: when we choose to invest in people, we step into God’s story in their lives. A simple act of kindness, a listening ear, or a genuine friendship can be the very thing God uses to draw someone closer to Him. Relationships are not just “nice extras”, they are powerful tools in God’s hands. When we love people the way Christ loved us, we reflect His heart most naturally and irresistibly. That’s when friendships become more than connections, they become bridges to eternity.

Reflection

Do you think relationships are necessary in following Christ and sharing His love with others? How can you take one small step this week to build or strengthen a friendship?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for designing us for relationship with You and with others. Help me to build friendships that reflect Your love, and use my life as a bridge that leads others closer to You. Amen.