Why Do You Need Relationships?
Have you ever sat down to ask yourself: Why do I need this relationship? Why am I in this relationship?
Recently, I started taking an online course from the University of Toronto on The Art and Science of Relationships, and it has been such a blessing. It's not just opening my eyes to the “how-tos” of relationships but also to the why—the core reason behind our desire for connection.
And I want to say this early on: When I talk about relationships here, I’m not just talking about dating or romantic relationships. I’m talking about every kind of relationship—friendships, family, mentorships, work relationships, spiritual community, and so on.
Here’s something I’ve learned that I want you to hold on to: Relationships don’t just meet our emotional needs—they help define who we are.
Think about it.
You didn’t become who you are in isolation. The things you've seen, the words spoken over you, the love you’ve received—or didn’t receive—the affirmations, the criticisms, the encouragement, the betrayal… all of these came through people. They’ve shaped your values, your expectations, and even how you see yourself.
Let me give you a practical example.
Imagine two people—both talented, both with potential. One grew up surrounded by people who constantly reminded them of their worth, encouraged them to try again when they failed, and celebrated their small wins. The other was around voices that doubted them, questioned every move, and rarely ever affirmed anything good.
And that’s why it’s so important to see yourself in the light of Christ. Your identity shouldn’t be shaped by what others have said or done but by what God has spoken over you. You are not just someone’s friend, partner, or sibling—you are God’s masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10), chosen, deeply loved, and intentionally created for a purpose. If you've never taken the time to explore your identity in Christ, I strongly encourage you to start now. Read the Word, meditate on what God says about you, and let those truths be the mirror you look into daily.
Now let’s dig even deeper—because understanding why you need relationships can transform the way you engage with the people around us.
1. You Were Never Meant to Do Life Alone
From the very beginning of time, God made it clear—“It is not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). That’s not just about marriage. That’s a foundational truth about our design. God, in His very nature, is relational—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. So, it’s no surprise that we, made in His image, crave connection too.
Loneliness isn’t just emotional—it’s spiritual. God wired us for community.
2. Relationships Reflect God’s Love
You know how sometimes, someone shows up at just the right moment with a word of encouragement, a helping hand, or even just a warm hug? That’s not a coincidence. That’s God showing you love through people.
The Bible tells us, “Let us love one another, for love comes from God” (1 John 4:7).
Every relationship is an opportunity to experience and reflect the love of Christ. Through kindness, through forgiveness, through service. Relationships are a mirror of God’s heart when they’re done His way.
3. Relationships Are Where Growth Happens
God will use people to teach you patience. He’ll use community to shape your character. He’ll even use misunderstandings to stretch your maturity.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).
Let’s be honest—sometimes, growth isn’t comfortable. But God uses people to help us become more like Him. That conflict? That friend who challenges you to be better? That mentor who corrects you in love? That’s God working.
4. Healing and Strength Flow Through Relationship
Remember when we talked about emotional baggage and soul ties in the previous posts? (If you missed them, go catch up.) One thing we highlighted was how healing often comes through vulnerability—with God and with people.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).
It’s in relationships that we learn how to open up, share our stories, and realize that we are not alone in our struggles. God comforts us, yes—but He also sends people to walk with us through the valleys.
5. Relationships Are Part of Our Purpose
No one fulfills their destiny in isolation. Think about it—David needed Jonathan. Paul had Timothy. Ruth had Naomi. Even Jesus had the disciples.
“We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.” (Romans 12:5, NLT)
You’re not just here to “make it” alone. You’re part of something bigger. You’re part of a body. A family. A divine network. Your purpose will always be connected to people—those you’re called to and those who are called to you.
Reading The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren was such a turning point for me. One thing that stood out was his emphasis on the need for a spiritual community. It shifted my perspective and made me more intentional about engaging with the people in my church. I used to pack my bags and run away at the close of service. But now, I stay. I show up. I serve. Because I understand that spiritual relationships are part of God’s design for my growth.
Relationships will stretch you. They will expose parts of you that need healing, maturity, and growth. And that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it’s in relationships that we often see the fruit of the Spirit at work—patience, kindness, self-control, forgiveness, and love (Galatians 5:22–23).
So… Why Do You Need Relationships?
Yes, relationships can be hard. They require effort, grace, and intentionality. But the beauty far outweighs the struggle when God is at the center of it all.
Ultimately, God wants you whole, healthy, and surrounded by the kind of love that reflects His heart for you.
Finally...
As we wrap up, I hope you’ve gained a fresh perspective on why you need relationships and how they play a vital role in shaping your identity, growth, and purpose. Now that you see the importance of healthy relationships, I pray that you will begin to embrace them—relationships that elevate, challenge, and nurture your soul.
Now, we’re moving forward. In the coming weeks, we’ll dive deeper into purposeful love, kingdom friendships, and how to build relationships that honor God and enrich your life. I’m so excited about where this journey is going—and I hope you are too!
Thank you for walking with me on this journey of discovery. If you would like to keep in touch or have any questions, feel free to reach out:
- Email: [email protected]
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