A relationally unhealthy person is toxic to the people around them. The opposite of that is a relationally healthy person - and here's how to know if that's you.
Talking Points:
- A relationally healthy person is personally authentic. They know who they are and don’t pretend to be something they’re not. Romans 12:9-10
- A relationally healthy person has empathy for others. They’ve developed the discipline of seeing things from another person’s point of view, even when they disagree. Hebrews 12:14
- A relationally healthy person steps into healthy conflict. They bravely speak the truth in love whenever it’s helpful. Galatians 6:1, Ephesians 4:2-3
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Who is a difficult person in your life? What qualities make it hard for you to be in relationship with them?
- Think about a person in your life who you feel is fake. What clues or evidence do you have for this? How does their lack of authenticity affect your relationship with them?
- Read Romans 12:9-10. What does it look like when we’re “fake” loving someone? Describe what a genuine friend looks like.
- Define empathy in your own words. Why is recognizing another point of view important in a relationship? How does it feel when someone else doesn’t acknowledge your feelings or perspective?
- Read Hebrews 12:14-15 and Ephesians 4:2. What happens when we choose to be gracious toward someone’s faults rather than being judgmental and critical?
- Read Galatians 6:1. Share a time when you loving confronted a friend. How did it impact your relationship?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
