Relationships

The longer I practice ministry, the more I realize the importance of relationships. I myself have never been good at relationships. With the advent of information technology, though, I'm better at staying in contact through e-mail, Facebook, MySpace, blogging, Twitter, and Skype.

Relationships are tricky. They require investment of time and energy. With a shaky economy, it's not out of line for us to be wary of investments. Many of us don't like to give up time or energy...but they are extremely important to cultivate life-giving, healthy relationships.

Jesus said that he was the vine, and that we are the branches. We are meant to abide in him. I wonder, sometimes, if we're afraid to make the investment of time and energy in our relationship with Jesus. If it's going to cost us, is the investment too risky?

Jesus risked much more for each of us. Jesus' life was his investment in us. We should be asking ourselves if the benefits outweigh the costs, and I think they certainly do!

Ask yourself today: How am I abiding in God? It's a relationship worth investing in!