Adding the Chocolate: Or 7 Keys To Lasting Relationships

I may be able to speak the languages of men and even of angels, but if I have no love, my speech is no more than a noisy gong or a clanging bell. I may have the gift of inspired preaching; I may have all knowledge and understand all secrets; I may have all the faith needed to move mountains- but if I have no love, I am nothing. I may give away everything I have, and even give up my body to be burned- but if I have no love, this does me no good.

Three initial statements: (1-3)

1. Unless we love God, our worship is noise.

2. Unless we love ourselves, we are nothing.

3. Unless we love others, life is meaningless.

I. Lasting relationships require patience, 4.

II. Lasting relationships rely upon acts of kindness, 4

III. Lasting relationships depend upon truth telling, 6.

Ephesians 4:15 ESV

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ,

1. Be honest.

2. Be tactful,

IV. Lasting relationships overcome obstacles, 7.

1. Shelter

2. Nurture

V. Lasting relationships rest upon trust, 7.

VI. Lasting relationships require an optimistic spirit, 7.

VII. Lasting relationships endure all, 7.

You see, love adds the chocolate.