Weekly Theme August 3 through 9

Using Conversation to Build Relationships

 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

1 Corinthians 9:22-23

                          

How do you intentionally build relationships?  Or do you?  If we want to build relationships then we need an intentional plan that will put us in places where we have the opportunity to connect with people and then develop a relationship

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What is your plan?  Is it to develop meaningful and growing relationships with your co-workers?  Or maybe you are very intentional about making a connection with your neighbors and the people who live in your community.  Maybe you are very active in your Home Owners Association so that you will have the opportunity to get to know people who live in your neighborhood.  Maybe you share some baked goods with your neighbors from time to time in order to be able to start a conversation.  Maybe you have children who are involved in various activities and you use that as an opportunity to get to know the parents of the children who are involved with your children.  Waiting with other parents when your child is in gymnastics or karate class is a great way to get to know other people.  Don’t just sit reading a book or a magazine instead use that time to start a conversation!

Are we intentional about getting to know people or are we haphazard about the way we connect with other people?  Worse yet, do we avoid people because we don’t want to take the risk of developing a relationship and having to open ourselves to someone new?  It is amazing how many people actually avoid conversations because talking with someone they do not know is just too uncomfortable for them.