 "Real Love" is biblical. It is not mushy or necessarily romantic. It becomes "real" when you serve another person through loving/caring actions. But such love can be blunted through lack of loving feelings, depression, and criticism. Beginning to recognize and understand the aspects that block love can help you move into healthy healing habits and ambiance. You will be empowered as you learn about the different types of critics and their tactics. The balance wheel helps you see what your life looks like and then assists you in setting healthy priorities. Not everything in your life should be urgent and important. Making new habits, like taking the time to slow down and learn healthy self-care, is vital.
People will find different ways to be healthy. No two people, even identical twins, are exactly alike. God has made each person with a unique personality. This chapter will help you discover your personality. But even with these differences, real love and friendships are fostered as you get closer to God. And if you can share this closeness you have with God with another person, then that brings the three of you into relationship. The diagram "Communicating with God (and Others)" gives you a visual representation of the biblical dynamic of Ecclesiastes 4:12b.
"A threefold cord is not quickly broken."
Different types of intimacy are presented to assist you in understanding healthy ways to engender deeper, longer lasting friendships. And these types of intimacy may even foster new priorities in your life.
What's the best way to change? With a friend. And what better friend do you have than Jesus?
|
