Staying Happy in Relationships

When we think about our relationships, we realize they can have a great impact on our emotions. As today’s scripture indicates, it is possible for us to wear out our welcome, meaning that others can reach the point where they wish we would just go home and give them some space. It is also possible for other people to wear out their welcome in our lives. To stay emotionally healthy, it is important for us to find a balance between giving and receiving in our relationships.

At one time in my life, I was learning to be content and trying not to want anything for myself. I continued to invest in the lives of several people who never gave back so much as a thank you or a word of encouragement to me. One day I realized that these relationships were draining and that I was enabling these people to continue in a selfish lifestyle. I prayed diligently and felt that God showed me that these relationships were unhealthy. In doing all the taking and no giving, these people were disrespecting the relationship and taking advantage of me. For me to have allowed this to continue would not have been good for them, so I had to set some healthy boundaries and learn how to avoid relationships that were exhausting.

We should choose our friends and associates wisely, looking for people who are there for us when we have needs, just as they expect us to be available for them when they need something.

Prayer of the Day: Lord, help me make good decisions about relationships so that both I and others can give and receive in healthy ways.