One day, David asked, “Is anyone in Saul’s family still alive — anyone to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”
– 2 Samuel 9:1 NLT
The Collins Dictionary describes a relationship as a connection, an association or an involvement. When we interact with people we are making connections, building associations and getting involved in their affairs.
As a believer, you ought to be an all-rounder excelling in all things. As you excel in your spiritual devotion, health, career etc, you must also seek to excel in relationship building and maintenance. You must desire to build new relationships as well as maintain the existing fruitful relationships that you have.
Our anchor text describes the benefit of quality relationships. David, in a position of power and influence, remembered his friendship with Jonathan and decided to extend favour not only to Jonathan’s immediate family but even to Saul. Abraham, in Genesis 18, recognised the benefit of relationships and took steps to be hospitable to the strangers at his door. His hospitality brought him his answer.
In the area of spiritual relationships, apply a horizontal and vertical approach. The vertical approach should be directed towards spiritual leaders. You ought to interest yourself in their well-being. Let’s look at Apostle Paul’s admonition about how we should relate with our spiritual leaders.
“Dear brothers and sisters, honour those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 NLT
In addition to praying for them, support them with gifts and words of appreciation. This way, you encourage them for their selfless service to God and you.
A horizontal approach encompasses your relationship with fellow brethren. Make a conscious effort to get to know people in your church; what they do and how you can be of help to one another. Support, extend favour and kindness to them. (Proverbs 3:27; Ephesians 2:19).
Like Apostle, Paul encouraged the Galatian church, “whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.” – Galatians 6:10 NLT
In your career, your skills and competencies are important but what is more important is the relationships you built on that journey. These relationships ensure that when promotions or elevations are discussed, your name is stoutly defended and recommended. Be intentional about giving compliments and gifts, volunteer for tasks outside your department, and show up for events. These are key ways to unlock professional relationships.
Most times we focus on people at the top but sometimes people at the top rely on feedback from people below to make certain decisions. Dear believer, your spiritual zeal, as well as your skills and competencies, will undoubtedly lead you to the door, but it is your relationships that will unlock it.
Bible Reading Plan: Job 1-2