Cultivating a Godly Relationship: Three Transformative Steps
A godly marriage is a delight to the Lord. Yes! A marriage where God is in charge and He has full authority to gently steer the relationship in the right direction, brings joy and honor to Him.
However, these great marriages do not just happen. To have the kind of marriage that pleases God, a lot of spiritual work will happen, leading up to the day of the ‘I Do’.
Relationships set the stage for the kind of marriage a person will have. A relationship filled with abuse and hurt will obviously end up as an abusive marriage. Conversely, a relationship rooted in God will end up as a marriage advancing God’s kingdom.
I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Ephesians 4:1-3 NKJV
Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 NKJV
A godly relationship is a profound and spiritually enriching bond between two individuals. It is a relationship that has God at the center and is symbolic to the relationship that exists between Christ and the church. A godly relationship has its roots in God’s word. It also fosters love, respect, and growth.
Entering or cultivating a godly relationship is more work and commitment than talk. It requires intentionality and understanding what it means to represent God and His kingdom through your relationship.
If you are ready to do what it takes to be in that relationship that honors and pleases God, here are five transformative steps for entering and building godly relationship that provides a solid foundation for a meaningful and fulfilling connection:
- Become friends first: To form any meaningful relationship, you have to become friends with the person first. This principle also applies to the body of Christ. You met someone who you feel you can potentially end up with? Instead of rushing things, seek to become friends first. By doing so, you get to know the person, evaluate their spirituality, and set a foundation for honest communication, growth, and connection.
- Find places of relatability: Amos 3:3 asks a question that is fundamental to relationships (see below). Well, the answer is no. Entering or cultivating a relationship that pleases God entails finding a place of relatability. When both partners are able to understand and connect socially and emotionally, it paves the way for a deeper connection. It also provides a framework for genuine love and trust that strengthens the relationship over time.
Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?
Amos 3:3 NKJV
- Be a place of safety and comfort for them: A good relationship borders on love and trust between both parties. Often, starting a godly relationship entails creating an environment or space where the other person feels safe and comfortable. This way, there is room for honesty and authenticity, leading to a true and healthy love for God and each other.
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.
Romans 12:9 NKJV
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