REFOCUS MY FRIENDS + FAMILY

Our friends and family influence how we think, speak, and even how we follow Jesus. It’s so important to regularly evaluate the purpose of the relationships in your life. In the sermon, Dating Distractions, we are warned that too often we "make room for distractions"—getting so deep in relationships that we lose sight of what they’re stealing from us. Today we are invited to pause and ask: Are the relationships in our inner circle helping us grow in purpose, or sacrificing our God-given calling?

Every relationship comes with demands. That isn’t a bad thing. It’s part of loving people. The problem comes when we carry more than God ever asked us to. Proverbs teaches us that when we walk with the wise, we grow wise. But the opposite is also true. Harm comes from keeping close company with foolishness. This doesn’t mean we cancel everyone who thinks differently, but it does mean we must be intentional about who has influence in our lives.

Today, we ask God to help us refocus the purpose of our relationships—both with friends and family. Maybe that looks like re-evaluating who you're walking closely with, or stepping up spiritually in your home. Or maybe it’s holding onto hope that, like in Acts 16, salvation can reach your entire household.

We are designed to grow in community and the purpose is always bigger than convenience or comfort. God cares deeply about the people in our lives and the way we interact with them because our relationships don’t just shape our experiences; they shape our hearts.

Application/ Reflection

Take time today to receive clarity from God on relationships in your life that need realignment.

1. Do I currently have friendships creating a doorway to distraction?
2. Are there family relationships where God is calling you to lead with love?
3. Are you comparing yourself to others in your circle instead of trusting God’s plan in the purpose of the relationship?

Invite Him to reveal the purpose behind the people He’s placed in your life.

Prayer

God, thank You for placing people in my life with intention. Help me to walk wisely in friendship, and love well within my family. Show me how to handle each relationship in a way that honors You. Refocus the purpose of my relationships so they line up with Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.