Communication

Effort and Connections

by Timiarah Camburn 
09/04/16
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A relationship is a connection between two people, and it can consist of two spouses, family members, friends, co-workers and so on. There is no relationship without a connection, and there is no connection without an effort. All relationships require the input of both parties to survive. A one-way relationship is not a relationship; it’s either a pride-ship, a hurt-ship, or an uninterested-ship.

In a pride-ship, one person doesn’t put forth the effort because he (or she) believes that his awesomeness entitles him to the other person’s everlasting devotion and worship--regardless of circumstances.

No human being deserves the worship of another. That belongs to God and God alone. (Matthew 22:37, Exodus 20:3)

In a hurt-ship, one person pulls the plug because the connection causes one too many painful electrical fires. Hurt-ships require Holy-Spirit-powered mending work.

In an uninterested-ship, one party doesn’t put forth the effort because he is either too scared or too selfish to tell the other party that mutual care doesn’t exist. Such a relation will not last no matter how desperate, dysfunctional, or kind-natured one of the parties may be. The effort-maker will get tired of trying to pump water from a dry well.

A relationship with God requires effort, as well. Yes, He always watches. Yes, He always cares. Yes, He always wants people to come to Him, but they don’t get to enjoy Him without putting effort into it. They don’t find Him without seeking Him (Matthew 7:7). They don’t get His heart unless they are willing to submit theirs (Ezekiel 36:25-26). He does offer the gift of salvation, but they still have to “do something” to receive it: believe, follow his commandments and communicate. (Exodus 20:6 KJV,John 14:21 KJV Luke 18:13)

If people are ashamed of Him, then He will be ashamed of them (Mark 8:38). If they forget Him, He will forget them. If they continue to ridicule, mock, reject, and blaspheme Him, He will eventually separate Himself from them for all eternity. However, if they put forth a sincere effort, He will show them unmeasurable affections (Psalm 16:11).