Christian Relationships: Being Connected With Others In Faith

John C. Maxwell wisely says, “The ability to connect with others is a major determining factor in reaching your full potential.” He goes on to remind us that “connecting is all about others.”

This principle is especially true for Christian women seeking to cultivate healthy, meaningful relationships. Whether in marriage, friendship, family, or community, connection is the bridge that allows us to love well, grow together, and fulfill God’s purposes.

📖 “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 KJV

Connection Is About Others

We live in a world where relationships often get reduced to convenience or self-interest. But true connection requires selflessness. It is about stepping outside ourselves to listen, care, and invest in the lives of others.

When we connect, we communicate: “I see you. You matter. You are valued.”

This is not just a leadership principle from John Maxwell—it is the heart of the gospel. Jesus connected with people wherever He went, seeing their needs, meeting them with compassion, and offering truth that transformed lives.

A Biblical Example: Ruth and Naomi

One of the most powerful stories of connection in Scripture is that of Ruth and Naomi. After the loss of their husbands, Naomi urged her daughters-in-law to return to their people. Orpah chose to leave, but Ruth stayed, uttering her famous words:

📖 “Whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” — Ruth 1:16 KJV

Ruth’s connection with Naomi was not built on convenience but on loyalty, love, and faith. She chose to center her life around Naomi’s wellbeing, committing to walk with her in both grief and hope. That connection not only sustained Naomi but positioned Ruth to step into God’s greater plan, eventually becoming part of the lineage of Christ.

This story shows us that connection has eternal impact. When we put others first, we participate in God’s bigger story.

The Truth Mindset in Relationships

Lie-Locked Living says:

• “I have to look out for myself first.”

• “Deep connections are too risky.”

• “People will never value me the way I value them.”

But the Truth Mindset declares:

• “I am called to serve others in love.” (Galatians 5:13)

• “God is my protector, so I can love without fear.”

• “True connection brings purpose, joy, and growth.”

Practical Steps: Building Rhythms of Rest

Step 1: Target the Lie (Awareness)

The world says, “If you slow down, you’ll fall behind.” The truth says, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.” (Psalm 23:1–3 KJV).

Identify the lies that drive your busyness: “I must do it all. People are counting on me. I can’t stop or everything will fall apart.”

Step 2: Replace with Scripture (Anchor)

Anchor yourself in God’s promises of rest.

• “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10 KJV)
• “In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15 KJV)
• “There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.” (Hebrews 4:9 KJV)

Step 3: Understand Its Meaning (Alignment)

Rest is not laziness. Rest is alignment with God’s rhythm. It is a declaration: “I trust God enough to stop striving.”
Journal Prompt: Where in my life am I striving in my own strength instead of trusting God’s rest?

Step 4: Turn It into a Declaration (Activation)

Speak truth-filled declarations:

• “Rest is not weakness; rest is worship.”
• “I cease striving and trust God to work while I rest.”
• “My worth is not in busyness but in my identity in Christ.”
• “Rest restores my body, renews my mind, and refreshes my spirit.”

Step 5: Hold It in Prayer (Abide)

Pray: “Father, I thank You that You give rest to the weary. Teach me to abide in You, to pause without guilt, and to find renewal in Your presence. Help me trust You with what is left undone, knowing You are faithful.”

Practical Ways to Build Connection

1. Find Common Ground – Ask questions, listen deeply, and look for shared values and experiences.

2. Show Genuine Care – Be present, not distracted. People feel love in attention.

3. Encourage Regularly – Words of life strengthen hearts (Proverbs 12:25).

4. Stay Authentic – Connection grows when you show the real you, not a polished mask.

5. Invest Time – Relationships thrive not on convenience but on consistency.

A Truth Declaration for Relationships

💬 “I will connect with others by showing genuine care, listening with love, and living authentically. My relationships reflect Christ’s love and bring glory to God.”

Final Encouragement

Christian relationships flourish when we embrace John Maxwell’s wisdom and Scripture’s call: connection is about others. Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi reminds us that choosing connection over convenience not only blesses others but also opens the door for God’s greater plan in our lives.

Friend, your ability to connect with others will shape not only your potential but also your legacy. May you love deeply, connect authentically, and shine Christ’s light in every relationship.

📖 “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” — Proverbs 31:25 KJV

Daily Practices of Renewal

• Begin the day with 5 minutes of stillness and gratitude before checking your phone.
• Take short prayer breaks at work—step away, breathe, invite God’s peace.
• End the evening with Scripture meditation instead of screens.

Weekly Rhythms of Rest

• Practice a Sabbath—cease from ordinary work, dedicate time to worship, family, and restoration.
• Disconnect from social media for a block of time.
• Do something life-giving: a walk, hobby, worship session.

Seasonal Renewal Practices

• Take intentional retreats for prayer and reflection.
• Evaluate commitments—prune what drains life.
• Celebrate milestones with thanksgiving pauses.