Breaking Down Barriers: The Power of Friendliness
When it comes to building meaningful relationships, it’s easy to get stuck in our comfort zones. We attend church services, participate in community events, and yet, still find ourselves feeling disconnected from others. But what if we could break down these barriers and create a sense of belonging?
A Lesson from Jesus
Jesus, the ultimate example of friendliness, showed us that true relationships require effort and intentionality. He didn’t wait for others to come to him; instead, he reached out to people from all walks of life. He attended social gatherings, engaged with sinners, and served others selflessly. His example teaches us that being friendly isn’t just about being likable; it’s about being intentional and proactive in building connections.
The Importance of Serving
One woman’s struggle to find connection in her church community highlights the importance of serving others. Despite being part of a large congregation with numerous opportunities for involvement, she felt isolated. This experience serves as a reminder that simply attending church or participating in activities isn’t enough. We must be willing to take the initiative to serve others, just as Jesus did.
Practical Advice for Building Relationships
So, how can we break down barriers and build meaningful relationships? One acquaintance’s experience in the foreign service offers valuable insights. To emotionally survive in new environments, she advises us to “dig in immediately,” try new things, invite strangers into our lives, and find ways to serve. By following this advice, we can create a sense of belonging and connection with others.
Don’t Wait – Take Action
As followers of Jesus, we’re called to be people with passionate purpose. We can’t afford to wait for others to reach out to us; instead, we must take the initiative to build relationships. By doing so, we’ll not only create a sense of community but also reflect Jesus’ example of friendliness. So, let’s ask ourselves: what can we do today to break down barriers and build meaningful connections with others?
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