Relating to Others

Our July theme for the Today devotions, written by Rev. George Young, is “Relating to Others.” 

Do you watch reality shows on TV? As a homeowner, I confess I am a fan of the house renovation shows, though it often seems all too easy on TV. Maybe you’re hooked on “The Bachelorette,” “Survivor,” Amazing Race,” or any of a number of other shows that supposedly show “real life.” You might set your DVR so you can watch the shows later without commercials, or stream them online.

One thing is certain when it comes to reality game shows: the contestants must quickly figure out how to relate to the other people on their teams. If they don’t, it’s likely they’ll be eliminated sooner rather than later.

But are reality shows really “real?” Do they show life as it really is? Of course they don’t! To begin with, our real lives aren’t edited by producers so we only see the highest moments or the heaviest drama. Real life is exactly that: real life—with high spots, low spots, heavy drama, hard work, and times of boredom. And in our everyday dealings with family, friends, coworkers, church members—or even simply people we meet casually on the bus, in a store, or in a restaurant—how we interact with each person is vital to personal survival and happiness. It’s important that we get along with them, and yet maintain our personal integrity and self worth.

The Bible has much to say about relationships; how we should relate to God, to others, and to ourselves. This month, Rev. George Young walks us through many scripture passages and provides examples from his own life to help us learn how to walk through life with God and with others.

George Young was a missionary in Japan for many years before his retirement. After his college and seminary years, he also spent some time driving a taxicab in New York City. Obviously, both of those careers involved working hard at developing and maintaining his relationship with God and with others.

If you want to hear more of Rev. Young’s thoughts on writing this month’s devotions, I encourage you to listen to the audio interview.

May you be refreshed, refocused, and renewed in God’s Word.