Biblical Answer

The Impact of Our Daily Choices on Our Relationships

Our daily choices have a significant impact on our relationships. The habits that make up our days, whether or not we have social media, how we respond to pain and suffering, and how we handle failure or success, are all forming us into the kind of people we will be in our relationships. This means that we must be intentional about the choices we make and how they affect our relationships. As the Bible says, "Right relationships are more important than prosperity, comfort, or the other so-called good things in life" (Proverbs 15:17). This means that we must prioritize our relationships and make choices that support and nurture them.

When we prioritize our relationships, we demonstrate our commitment to them. This can be seen in the way we schedule our time, making sure to prioritize quality time with our loved ones. It can also be seen in the way we communicate with each other, being honest and open with one another. When we make sacrifices for the good of our relationship, we show that we value it above our own interests. This is a key characteristic of a healthy, go-the-distance relationship. As the author notes, "Unselfishness in all areas, including sex, has such value that few marriages can survive without it" (emphasis added). When both partners are committed to putting the good of their relationship ahead of their own interests, the vast majority of marital problems are solved.

In contrast, when we prioritize our own interests and desires above our relationships, we can damage them irreparably. This can be seen in the way we use social media, comparing our lives to others and feeling dissatisfied with our own relationships. It can also be seen in the way we respond to pain and suffering, becoming isolated and withdrawn rather than seeking support from our loved ones. When we make choices that prioritize our own interests above our relationships, we can create a culture of entitlement and selfishness that can be devastating to our relationships. As the author notes, "The consumer model increasingly characterizes most relationships that historically were covenantal, including marriage. Today we stay connected to people only as long as they are meeting our par" (emphasis added). This is a recipe for disaster in our relationships. By prioritizing our relationships and making choices that support and nurture them, we can create a culture of love, commitment, and sacrifice that can withstand the trials of life.