Guidelines for Healthy Relationships

Sep 13, 2024

How to Stop Attracting Wrong Relationships

Introduction

  • Message focused on single people and those not married.
  • Everyone can benefit from understanding how to avoid wrong relationships.
  • Satan can distract us through relationships.
  • Author's book "Single Ready to Mingle" is available for free download.

Key Concepts

Satan's Distraction through Relationships

  • Satan sends wrong people to distract us.
  • Distractions can defeat us spiritually.
  • Important to discern between God's blessings and Satan's bait.

Low Self-Image and Unhealthy Relationships

  • Low self-esteem attracts unhealthy relationships.
  • Like bleeding attracts sharks, insecurities attract exploiters.
  • Relationships shouldn't be used as a cure for personal issues.

Importance of Identity

  • Identity issues can lead to poor relationship choices.
  • Importance of having a positive self-image.
  • Avoid seeking a "Messiah" in a partner.

Strategies to Avoid Wrong Relationships

Pay Attention to Red Flags

  • Notice early warning signs.
  • Biggest red flag: if the person is not "in the Lord."
  • Shouldn't have to pray for a partner to change before marriage.

Set Up Healthy Boundaries

  • Maintain standards and boundaries.
  • Healthy boundaries should be respected by partners.
  • Avoid co-signing or merging finances before marriage.

Heal from Past Hurts

  • Essential to heal from past relationships and traumas.
  • Do not carry baggage into new relationships.
  • Get over your ex before moving to the next.

Avoid Desperation and Loneliness

  • Desperation can blur discernment.
  • Trust in God’s timing.

Learn to Say No

  • Say no when lacking peace about a relationship.
  • Don’t proceed if you’re doubtful.

Lean on Wise Counsel

  • Listen to advisors who might disagree with you.
  • Acknowledging blind spots is crucial.

Preserve Personal Growth

  • Do not lose yourself in pursuit of someone else.
  • Healthy relationships should complement, not cancel, personal growth.

Conclusion

  • Maintain trust in God’s timing for relationships.
  • Aim to be whole in personal identity before entering a relationship.
  • Relationships should be rooted in spiritual health and mutual respect.