A Biblical Plan For Repairing Broken Relationships
All of us know what it's like to have a strained relationship. Romantic relationships and marriages often seem the most difficult to heal because there are so many escape routes, so many different paths to just give up and throw in the towel. Many of us ask, “How do I even start the repair? What do I say?” If I could be privileged enough to sit with you and answer such a personal question, I’d join you in asking the Lord to give us His words and ideas for repair. Here are some steps to help you heal and restore broken relationships. 1. Recognize the pattern. My grandfather came from a generation of men that operated radically different to how I live now. The behaviors and actions that were accessible in the past are not acceptable now. No one taught him how to navigate all of his emotions and feelings. in fact it was looked down upon for a man to articulate his feelings. Why am i saying this, it's important to understand the perspective that your partner was raised in? What type of behavior are they used to? Understanding the emotional starting point of your partner is essential if you can ever hope for things to be different. 2. Take responsibility. It’s easy to point the finger at someone else’s sin and harder to recognize our own. Galatians 6:5 reminds us, “Each person must be responsible for himself” . Examine your heart and prayerfully discern the areas where you need to ask for forgiveness. 3. Establish boundaries. Sometimes you’ll need space to allow anger to settle before you say something you’ll wish you could retract, or to protect yourself from further hurt. It’s okay to extend a boundary to protect your heart and your relationship. Some land mines are better kept in the distance and not addressed until the relationship is stronger and healthier. 4. Dedicate your communication to God. Consecrate your own lips for God’s repairs and purposes in your everyday interactions. Ask Him for the words He wants you to hear. When we step out in faithfulness rather than fear, God will meet us there and show us how to move toward repair and redemption in our relationships. 5. Initiate healing. Tell your loved one that you choose a relationship and you’re ready for a new start. A focus on commonalities and a shared desire for closeness can overcome so many differences.
Peace, ROHO Founder **ROHO TESTIMONY** **Good morning, I am so grateful for these daily emails, it feels like you are directly speaking to me. I just Thank God for using this ministry to provide clarity and direction as I try to do God's will in my life. I am committed to being a better person. God Bless you and what you do.
About the Author
Rev. Nicholas S. Richards is an ordained minister, author of Destiny DNA, and founder of ROHO. For over 11 years, he has written more than 6,000 daily devotionals reaching believers worldwide. Learn more about Rev. Richards.