Relationships must trump tasks. Healthy relationships require time—and quantity produces quality. Don't be “unequally yoked” in your most inner circles, but also don't let others' fears and opinions keep you from starting new transformational relationships. Always ask, “What's best for the kingdom?” not “What's best for me?”
Series: Healthy Friendships: As Iron Sharpens Iron
Speaker: John Pryor
Notes:
Choose relationships over tasks. Jesus expected more from the “sinners and tax collectors” He befriended than the Jewish leaders did, but genuine love, purpose, and hope is an “easier yoke” than legalism. We see this kind of godly bravery and selfless, empowering love in Jonathan. Proverbs 27:17, 1 Samuel 13-14 & 17-18, Matthew 11:16-30
Choose the kingdom over yourself. Jesus laid down His life for us and expects us to do the same for Him and for each other. Like Jonathan, we must trust God's wisdom and always ask, “What's best for the kingdom?” not “what's best for me?” John 15:13-15,
1 Samuel 19-23
Choose integrity over reputation. Jesus said wisdom is proven by the results of our actions—even if they make us look bad in the moment. Like Jonathan, we must do the right thing, not the thing we think will make us look good. Luke 7:31-50, John 8:1-11,
2 Samuel 1, 4:4, 9, & 21:1-14, Galatians 6:10, Revelation 3:20
Lord, I will…