Game Changing Relationships

Is it possible that some of the individuals we meet while going about our daily lives have the ability to change how our lives turn out if we let them get close to us?

Here are some scenarios to consider:

• Esther met Mordecai, and she became Queen (the Book of Esther).
• Samson met Delilah, and he ended up losing his sight and probably dying prematurely (the book of Judges).
• Ruth met Naomi, and she ended up in the lineage that is associated with Jesus (the book of Ruth).
• Rahab helped the spies and ended up saving herself and her family (the book of Joshua).
• Jesus met his disciples, and the trajectory of their lives changed completely (the books of Matthew and Mark).

From the examples, it’s clear to see that the individuals we interact with on a daily basis may have an impact on us; the impact can either be positive or negative, but whether or not they have the power to significantly affect how our lives turn out depends on various factors.

People we interact with can influence our thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Their viewpoints and counsel can influence the course of our lives if we let them have a significant impact on how we make decisions. In the end, though, it's important to keep in mind that we are ultimately in charge of our decisions and that we must accept responsibility for them.

Relationships that are inspiring and encouraging can provide us with confidence, inspiration, and chances to make great changes in our lives. On the other hand, toxic or bad relationships can be destructive, causing stress and self-doubt as well as sometimes impeding our own development and goals.

However, it's important to note that the power to shape our lives ultimately rests within ourselves. We have agency and the power to make our own decisions, even though the individuals we meet can undoubtedly have an effect on us. It's up to us to discern and evaluate the influence others may have on our lives and to take responsibility for our own decisions and actions.

Ultimately, the extent to which others can affect our lives depends on various factors, such as the depth of the relationship, the level of influence we allow them to have, and our own resilience and ability to maintain autonomy. It's important to cultivate healthy relationships and surround ourselves with individuals who support our well-being and personal growth.

Take some time to evaluate those who are closest to you. How much influence do they have on where you are currently? What role are they playing in the direction that your life is taking? Now, don’t get me wrong; I am not asking you to cut off your friends; all I am saying is to be deliberate about who you allow to get closest to you. They could be the reason why you are where you are currently, and they have a say on where you will be in the future. In other words, your destiny is most significantly determined by the relationships you choose to pursue. Therefore, invest more time and energy in relationships that speak to where you are going and the person you desire to become.

I pray that God will grant you the discernment and wisdom to associate with people who will enable you to fulfil your potential.