Part 4: Promise Keeping

Big Idea Our goal in life is not simply to follow Jesus, but to become like Him. Therefore, He must increase and we must decrease (John

3:30). There are three promises we can make to help us be more like Jesus in our relationships. First, we can promise to respond

with patience and love rather than to react out of emotion and impulse. Next, we can promise to focus on the good in people in-

stead of focusing on their faults. Last, we can promise to talk it out when there is conflict instead of walking away and giving up on

the relationship.

Promises are great when they are fulfilled, but what do we do when we find ourselves on the disappointing end of a broken prom-

ise? For starters, we should acknowledge our own mistakes. Where would we be without the forgiveness of God (Romans 3:23)?

Then we should abandon our right to get even. We don’t want a win-lose outcome, we want win-win! Lastly, we should apply

God’s grace to others. “We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Discussion Questions

The Bible teaches us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. What do you think we should we be listening

for when others speak to us about relationship problems?

When it comes to grace, we all want it in abundance, but we can struggle to give it freely. Do you think God wants us to keep it

to ourselves or pass it on to our neighbors? Why?

In promising to focus on the good in others, how should we handle it when we can’t easily identify the good in another per-

son? Would talking to another believer help? What pitfalls should we be careful to avoid when discussing difficult situations

with a third party?

Prayer Focus Father God, thank you for your faithfulness! Please protect us from bitterness and resentment caused by broken promises. Bless

our relationships to grow healthier and stronger as we grow closer to you. Fill our relationships with peace, love, and joy. In Jesus

name, Amen.

Next Steps Unforgiveness is a bitter root that we can’t afford to let linger. Is there anyone against whom you are harboring unforgiveness in

your heart today? Forgive them, pray for them, and ask God to heal any hurts you may have from the relationship.

Leader Tip Worshiping Jesus has a way of bringing everything back into the proper perspective. We can better navigate through the ups and

downs of relationships when we take the time to declare that Jesus is bigger than all of our problems. Jesus You Alone, the new

album by Highlands Worship, is available on CD and digital download.