What Draws People Closer in a Relationship?

Whatever shapes a relationship and determines its success or failure is directly attributed to words that are spoken in conjunction with a positive or negative mood. It’s possible to temporarily disguise feelings and thoughts, but eventually and predictably, the truth will be revealed.

Some people would never disguise their thoughts or mood even as they realize these thoughts and feelings, if expressed, would damage the relationship. While this approach hides dangerous pent-up emotions, they contribute to a sad, depressed mood that pushes people away.

Conversely, feelings which are joyful, confident, and peaceful exemplify a mood of contentment that draws people closer to each other. 

In life we have a choice of being a peacemaker or an alienator, to expect and live with hope for the future or become engulfed in negative thoughts and moods. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called God’s own people.” What a blessed position to share with those you love!           

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Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

~1 Thessalonians 5:16 New International Version

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Can Christians Guard Against Deception?

How easy is it to be deceived by others’ hidden motives or by what we personally want or crave? It’s imperative to guard against what would separate us from godly values or a clear conscience. Proverbs 14:12 warns us: “There is a way that seems right to us but may end in our death.”

Psalm 1 clearly states what we are to avoid: “Blessed is the person that does not seek the advice of wicked or evil people, who does not follow the example of sinners or hang around those who have no use for God.” Deliberately aligning yourself with evil will create heartache and suffering, while separating you from God’s blessings.

Living with the knowledge and wisdom God provides will prevent you from growing stale and vulnerable. Psalm 1 defines those who have energy for God: “Their delight is in doing what God wants. They meditate on God’s word continually, thinking about how to follow him more closely.” This is your source for peace and joy.                     

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Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

~1 Thessalonians 5:16 Revised Standard Version 

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Is It Possible to Stifle Feelings of Gratitude?

What prevents feelings of gratitude from being acknowledged or expressed? It could be related to thinking the world and God owe you everything you need and want. Possessing the finances or credit to purchase whatever is desired can create an attitude of self-reliance that stifles the inclination to be thankful.

Rediscovering gratitude demands going against self-sufficiency and independence. To create a new attitude of gratitude, consider which of your possessions has the least value and give thanks to God for that very thing. Your coffee cup, your toothbrush, and the mirror that helps you prepare for the day are provisions from God.

First Thessalonians 5:16 reminds us that an attitude of gratitude is required by God. “Be joyful always, pray at all times, and be thankful for every situation. This is God’s will for you in your union with Christ Jesus.” Gratitude should be linked to Jesus because in him we have hope and confidence.          

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Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

~Ephesians 5:19-20 New International Version

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Giving Thanks Gives Joy

Your personal happiness is definitely affected by what is perceived as being capable of stealing away your confidence. Rarely does a day go by without challenges to your peace and joy, but thank God, these challenges can be sidestepped. Your happiness and the capacity for thanksgiving are distinctly bound up together.

C. S. Lewis explains, "It’s possible to give thanks in everything: if it’s good, simply because it’s good; if it’s bad, because it works in us to produce patience, humility and hope." Giving thanks for what is good is easy, but the real challenge comes in trying to utter words of thanksgiving for unpleasant and painful experiences.

Listen to the Apostle Paul’s words of encouragement for facing difficult times. "Be joyful always; pray continually; and give thanks in all situations, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." A sense of joy can parallel difficult times as you rest assured that God’s intention is for good to spring forth in all you experience.  

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We ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will, with all the wisdom and understanding that his Spirit gives. May you be made strong with all the strength which comes from his glorious power, so that you may be able to endure everything with patience. And with joy give thanks for the Father, who has made you fit to have your share of what God has reserved for his people in the kingdom of light.

~Colossians 1:9, 11-12 Good News Bible