Wednesday, August 19, 2020

August 23: Relational Foundations

Do you remember anything about your elementary days? What about the first crush you had? Did you ever ask a friend to pass a note asking the question similar to this, “Do you love me? Check yes or no?” It all sounds silly today, but at the time that was something very special, unless of course the person checked “no”! When we become adults, we realize that relationships are a little more complicated especially since we live in a culture that doesn’t necessarily view relationships in the same way Christians might. Song of Songs (Solomon) gives us some incredible wisdom about Relational Foundations. This session will focus on three vital actions for maintaining healthy relationships.

There are only two sessions left in the “Living Wisely in a Foolish World” study. The study will take us to another Bible book that God led Solomon to write – the Song of Songs (Solomon). Both sessions will focus on building healthy relationships. Because healthy relationships matter to the Lord, we must become wise in how we invest in relationships.  This session's passage provides three actions for building healthy relationships, especially between a husband and wife. Here are the actions:

  • First, we should PROTECT OUR RELATIONSHIPS - Song of Songs 2:15
  • Second, MUTUAL COMMITMENT is needed in order to sustain healthy relationships - Song of Songs 2:16-17
  • Third, we should PRACTICE RESTRAINT - Song of Songs 3:1-5
These are explained further in the downloadable guide. As you study or lead a study, consider these actions:

  • On a scale of one to five, with one being little attention and five being a lot of attention, evaluate your relationship with your spouse (if married) and your relationship with Christ using the three actions – Protecting the Relationship, Mutual Commitment, and Practicing Restraint. 
  • Based on your own evaluation, determine two actions you could take to strengthen your marriage relationship and/or your relationship with Christ.
A Fun Song About Young Love
This song is referenced in the study so if you want to enjoy a blast from the past and love country music, check out George Straits song about young love that grows into an old and vibrant love - https://youtu.be/NHxS8wlDngI

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY GUIDE
The ideas give you a suggested "script" for teaching online or sharing via email.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION
Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.