appnotes
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MAY 1–5, 2017
ECCLESIASTES 4:9-12
We live in a culture of self-sufficiency. We’re told that true
strength comes from not needing others. Yet this frame of
thought goes against the way God has wired each one of us. We
are stronger together. We all need others who can encourage
us and help us in our time of need. That doesn’t mean that a
romantic relationship will make us whole. God’s intent was for
every person to experience interdependency. Whether you are
married or single you need people in your life who have your
back. You can’t be all that God designed you to be if you live in
isolation. Your faith and the quality of your life is strengthened by
the depth and quality of your relationships.
PHILIPPIANS 2:3
The modern dating scene can be summarized in one sentence:
What’s in it for me? This attitude doesn’t just apply to dating
relationships but marriages as well. Like a maid or butler, we
set off into relationships expecting another person to serve us
and to meet our every need which results in nothing but turmoil.
When two selfish people look to one another for satisfaction, the
relationship doesn’t stand a chance. So, is there a better way?
The Apostle Paul lets us in on the secret. Don’t simply seek out
your own interests but act in a way that benefits others. What
would our friendships, dating relationships or marriages look like
if we didn’t act selfishly but put others first? Our relationships
would thrive because they would be full of people trying to one
up each other through acts of kindness and service.
HEBREWS 10:24
Who are the people in your life who challenge you to be the best
you can be? The writer of Hebrews explains that we should spur
one another on toward love and good deeds. A spur is a metal tool
designed to be worn on the heels of riding boots for the purpose
of directing a horse to move while riding. A skilled rider knows
that a spur is painful and uses the tool sparingly but intentionally
to help the horse head in the right direction. The goal of a loving
relationship is to love people where they are and help them live
up to their full potential. If we’re going to do this well, there will
be some pain involved! Real love isn’t passive but passionately
pursues the best for someone else, even when it’s uncomfortable.
DAY
4
DAY
5
2 TIMOTHY 2:22
Have you ever tried to put something together without using the
instructions? Maybe that’s just a guy thing! The reality is that the
project always goes smoother when we follow the directions. In
the same way, life works best when we follow God’s blueprint.
God has a blueprint for our sexuality and when we try to figure
it out on our own, heartache will always follow. There are traps
that we can avoid along the way if we are familiar with God’s
instructions. What habits or traps do you need to flee from and
what do you need to begin to pursue to experience God’s best
for intimacy in relationships?
PROVERBS 3:5-6
Where do you go for relationship advice? If you look to
Cosmopolitan or Men’s Health, you may be in trouble. We all have
desires and, in our anxiety to turn those wishes into reality, we
look every which way for answers. The writer of Proverbs warns
us not to lean on the world’s advice or give into our feelings as the
ultimate source of wisdom. Instead, trust God with those hopes
and dreams, believing He has an incredible story for you to live!
So, what does it look like to trust God with all your heart? It means
following His plan and listening to His promptings one step at a
time. You might not see the whole path, but you can be confident
in the direction He’ll send you.
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