From Thought to Action: Chapter 14

Oct 23 2023 From Thought to Action: Chapter 14

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Before we begin, remember…making disciples can be as easy as reading a chapter of The Four Priorities and discussing it with someone else. This blog series is designed to supplement your journey. Feel free to take what you need and leave the rest! And remember, please share this post with your disciple so they can subscribe, too!

KEY QUOTES from Chapter 14: Social Assets – You and Your Relationships

Relationships turn sour for many reasons but often because one person has a blind spot.

Shallow relationships continue when people are afraid to reveal the hand they are dealt.

Signs of an unhealthy relationship:

1. 1. 1. One-sided commitment
      2. Competition
      3. Verbal betrayal
      4. Mocking and put-downs
      5. Smothering

REFLECT: Take some time today to reflect on which barriers (below) you tend to struggle with. You can also reflect on these passages of Scripture that are often referred to as the “one another” verses.

There were 4 relationship barriers listed in this chapter:

• hidden feelings,
• resentments,
• risky behaviors,
• and changes in life.

PRAY: We have a tendency to overcomplicate things – especially our prayers! One way to simplify your prayer life is to pick two phrases or truths from scripture and attach them to your breath pattern. As you inhale, internally say the 1st phrase. As you exhale, say the 2nd phrase.

INHALE: Help me to love others

EXHALE: as you love me, Lord

MEMORIZE: Take this week to memorize Ephesians 4:31-32 with your household. Write it on a sticky note to place on your car dashboard, your bathroom mirror, or wherever you will view it often.

Ephesians 4:31-32 “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”

WORSHIP: Listen to Love One Another by the Newsboys.

TABLE TALK:  What did you do this week to love someone around you?

TEACH/PLAY:

• Make a kite like the Kite Network from Dr. David Krakchardt. Then go fly a kite!
• Further study: Social network paper activity (p. 144 in 4P)
  • Take a sheet of paper and list across the bottom the five categories where social networks played a role in your development. Family Support – Career – Faith –Investment – Personal Growth. Create a kite for each of these categories, by actually drawing the kite and assigning names or resources for each of the links.
  • As you do the social network paper activity for the essential areas of your life, you’ll not only see that the social network was engaged without your being aware of what to call it, but now have the creativity to think about the next area that needs a network.

• Watch the Four Priorities Chapter Video
• Listen to the Four Priorities Chapter Video

Remember:

• The Christian life was never meant to be lived in isolation.
• Relationships are key to a successful life.
• Your friendships will only be as deep and intimate as your relationship with the Lord is deep and intimate.
• In God’s eyes, true success is found in your success with your friendships and relationships.
• How deep are your friendships?
• How many close friends do you have? Do they stick with you no matter what?
• Are you being a close friend to someone?
• A close friend is God-focused and exhibits selfless thinking and actions

That’s it for Chapter 14!
Now…go! And make disciples!