| Close human
relationships can be hard to build but rewarding to have. Unfortunately,
sometimes when we think we've built a solid, lasting relationship with another
person, we find that it's weaker than we imagined. Sometimes that relationship
might even fall apart.
The Beatitudes, found in Matthew 5:2-12, are "beautiful attitudes"
by which all of us can live our lives in Christian harmony and righteousness.
They offer us Christ's counsel on how we can improve our relationships with each
other and with God. Because Christ should be our model for living, we as
Christians need to take on more characteristics of his nature. Living the
Beatitudes is a major step to accomplishing this goal.
Some of the Beatitudes that address human relationships are:
" Blessed are the merciful.
" Blessed are the meek.
" Blessed are the pure in heart.
" Blessed are the peacemakers.
I believe these Beatitudes present models to which we should all strive.
It's important to recognize that Jesus always gave individual attention and
support to his people. We, too, should give that same one-on-one attention to
each other. With this in mind, I urge you to live Christ's admonitions found in
the Beatitudes. I also urge you to pay special attention to the following six
phrases -- notice that they get shorter as they progress -- which will also help
you develop and nurture healthy, loving relationships with those around you.
These six phrases are:
" "I admit I made a mistake." (six words)
" "You did a good job." (five words)
" "What is your opinion?" (four words)
" "If you please. . . ." (three words)
" "Thank you." (two words)
" "We. . . ." (one word)
Please make every effort to live out the Beatitudes each day and to use the
six phrases regularly. If you do, you will surely affirm your relationships with
Almighty God and those around you.
In Him who affirms us all,
Dr. Howard Newman, Pastor |
