The Rev. Dr. Pablo R. Diaz is clear about the importance of maintaining good relationships. “Nothing is more rewarding than having good relationships,” says Diaz, the Vice President of Ministries for Guideposts Outreach Division. “At the end of your life, you’ll care about two things: were you loved and were you able to love others.”
But whether you are talking about a romantic relationship, a family bond, a neighbor, an old friend, or a co-worker, building positive relationships can be a challenge. “It’s not easy,” says Diaz. “The challenge is: how do we relate and connect in a healthy way? Life is so busy and we bring baggage from the past into all our relationships; they bring out both the best and the worst in us. But relationships always give us the opportunity to learn, to grow and to become a better person.”
The Bible is full of verses about loving one another and the importance of building loyal connections. Jesus said: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13) While the Apostle Peter reminds us: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8)
Diaz says that both prayer and regular commitment to working on your relationships is essential. “You have to be intentional about building healthy relationships; they don’t just happen. Love is more than a feeling, love is about action. Communication is more than just words; it’s really about connecting with others.”
February 14 is Relationships Day of Prayer; our community will come together to lift your concerns about your loved ones to the Lord. Please send your prayer requests. You can pray multiple times for different important relationships in your life.
