SLP336 - Relationships, Resources, and the Rhythm of Real Progress

Over the last several weeks we have been looking at the impact relationships have, and as we’ve seen, relationships matter!

It’s important we understand the season we’re in, and where each relationship fits in with our progress and development.

Here are a few questions to consider;

• What is life outside of relationships? 
• How do we classify or categorize our relationships?
• Do relationships change in seasons of our lives?
• How do we navigate relationships when conflict or tests come?

Today, we’re going to be looking at these questions and talking about Relationships, Resources, and the Rhythm of Real Progress. 

Feature Presentation: 

GOD DID NOT CREATE US TO DO LIFE ALONE!

A great mentor and friend shared with me a very powerful concept some years ago. He said

You only need two things to succeed in life; Relationships and Resources. If you have to choose between the two, choose relationships, and they will lead you to the resources you need.

We are designed by God to have meaningful connections, relationships, and to interface with other people in order to add value and receive value

Categories of Relationships

• Family
• Mentors, Teachers, Spiritual Leaders
• Friends and Peers
• Workplace Relationships
• Casual Acquaintances

The Circle Test:

• Self – Know who you are
• Family – wife, children, mother, father, siblings, etc.
• Close friends – HOW CLOSE ARE THEY REALLY?
• Acquaintances/Tribe
• The Crowd 

The key is how do you define these levels.

• Friend
• Acquaintance
• Tribe
• Crowd
• Enemy
• Enemies/Fool

For your consideration:

1. Some relationships are for certain SEASONS. When that season has come to an end, it is not wise to continue to invest into the relationship, as you will drain yourself of the very resources
2. Some relationships are covenantal in nature and are sent by God to be LIFETIME relationships
3. Some relationships are SITUATIONAL such as business relationships, educational, etc. Most times, these are also temporary
4. Some relationships are STRATEGIC, and they have to do with your assignment in a particular season
5. All (healthy) relationships are given by God to be mutually beneficial, and for the common good

QUESTIONS:

1. Have you inventoried your relationships lately?
2. Are there people in your life that do NOT add value, but rather tale away from you?
3. Are there relationships in your life that need to be “moved” from one category to another?
4. Do you have room in your life for NEW, STRATEGIC relationships that could add value to your life in this new season?

Jim Rohn said … “You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with”.

What are you doing to raise your average?