Cultivating, multivating, maintaining Godly Relationship

 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”– John 13:34-35 (NIV)

 Introduction

 LAST week, we began a journey into the profound truth that God created us for connection—first with Him and then with one another. We explored the foundational principles of Godly relation­ships, recognising that true connection reflects the heart of God and shapes our spiritu­al, emotional, and relational well-being. Relationships, far from being mere social in­teractions, are divine assign­ments where love, trust, and integrity serve as markers of Christ’s transforming presence in our lives.

This week, we will continue to delve into how to cultivate and sustain relationships that honour God and demonstrate His love to a watching world. We’ll examine the key pillars that uphold Godly relation­ships.

4. Godly Relationships Thrive Through Humility and Service

The next point is that Godly relationships thrive through Humility and Service. In Phi­lippians 2:3-4, Paul tells us, “Do nothing out of selfish am­bition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

This is a call to live in humility, putting others first, and seeking ways to serve them.

Humility is essential in every relationship. Pride is the enemy of healthy, godly relationships because it seeks to dominate, control, and always be right. Pride insists on winning arguments instead of resolving conflicts. On the other hand, humility invites us to listen, to understand, and to put ourselves in the shoes of others.

In John 13, Jesus modelled ultimate humility when He washed His disciples’ feet. This act of service showed them that true greatness in God’s Kingdom comes from serving others. Likewise, in our relationships, we are called to serve—not to be served. This could mean serving our families with love and care, being there for friends in times of need, or being a source of support for colleagues.

Humility also means admit­ting when we are wrong and being willing to reconcile. It requires us to let go of our ego and approach others with a heart ready to make peace.

5. Godly Relationships Are Strengthened Through Prayer

Finally, Godly relationships are Strengthened Through Prayer. Prayer is the spiritual foundation of every relation­ship. It invites God into the centre of our interactions and gives us the strength, wisdom, and patience we need to nur­ture our relationships.

James 5:16 encourages us to “pray for one another, that you may be healed.” Prayer is a powerful way to cultivate godly relationships because it aligns our hearts with God’s will and purpose. When we pray for others, we release them into God’s hands, trusting Him to work in their lives. Prayer also softens our hearts toward others and gives us the grace to love them, even when it’s hard.

Whether it’s in our family, friendships, or other relation­ships, we must be intentional about praying for those we are connected to. Pray for their well-being, for God’s guid­ance in their lives, and for the health of your relationship. As we pray, God strengthens the bond and empowers us to love each other well.

By Rev. Dr Joyce Aryee, the author