AS I LIVE, I realize relationships are vital to our existence—our lives are built on them, and we thrive through them.
From the beginning of creation, God wanted humanity to be close to Him. He treated Adam and Eve like friends.
The Narrative
AFTER GOD MADE THE GARDEN and put the man in it, he told him to work and take care of it.
God said, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it, you will certainly die." (Genesis 2:16-17)
And when he saw that it wasn't good for the man to be alone, he made him a helpmeet. God was out to make him as comfortable as possible.
The man and the woman were both naked and not ashamed.
But shortly after, the devil deceived Eve. She ate the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil and gave it to Adam.
They shared their table with the enemy and broke the trust in their relationship with God.
They hid among the trees when they heard God's footsteps in the garden.
"Where are you," God called to Adam. "I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so, I hid, he answered." (Genesis 3:9-10)
"Who told you that you're naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?" (Genesis 3:11)
Adam was frightened of the relationship he had enjoyed. He suddenly realized his vulnerability and was concerned that he would get hurt.
Although God was upset, he wanted to give humanity a second chance. God planned to restore his relationship with mankind.
How do you build better relationships?
Learn to Trust
RELATIONSHIPS THRIVE ON TRUST. It's the pivot on which everything rests.
The devil undermined the trust that Eve had in God. He created doubt in her.
Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually. (1 Chronicle 16:11)
Good Communication
IN ANY RELATIONSHIP, you must do your best to communicate things properly and do not hesitate to ask questions when you need clarification.
Today, God shares his heart with us through the scriptures and teaches us by His Spirit. (John 14:26)
Become A Great Listener
EVERYONE DESERVES TO BE HEARD and understood.
Despite their sin, God still listened to what they had to say. He did not pronounce any judgement until he had heard from them.
Ask the Right Questions
IN LIFE, we all seek to be admired and loved.
To let people know that you hear them, you must understand what they're saying. The questions you ask will show that you heard.
If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame. (Proverbs 18:13)
Remember Things that Are Important to Others
A GOOD PLACE to start is to remember the names of people. When you do this, it's easier to remember things about them.
People are touched when you remember their names and situations.
Manage Your Emotions
PEOPLE WHO CONSISTENTLY MANAGE their emotions properly can better create meaningful relationships.
Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. (Proverbs 16:32)
Express Your Appreciation
GRATITUDE IS AN ESSENTIAL ATTITUDE with endless benefits. It boosts people's morale.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
BRINGING IT TOGETHER
THE FALL OF ADAM AND EVE put us in jeopardy.
But at the set time, God sent His Son to the world to die for our sins; so, we can have a better relationship with Him.
Now you can listen, not with the intent to argue but to change something in your life and become a better person.