Friday, November 18, 2011

Top Ten Relational Needs*

 (examples in scripture)

Acceptance - deliberate and ready reception with a favorable positive response,    even after failure (Rom. 15:7). (Jesus accepted Peter even after Peter’s failure.)

Affection – to communicate care and closeness through physical touch and words  (Rom. 16:16). (Jesus had compassion and loved disciples to the end.)

Appreciation to communicate with words and feelings a personal gratefulness for another (I Cor. 11:2).  (Jesus welcomed children-was not bothered by them.)

Approval – expressed commendation; to think and speak well of (Rom. 14:18). (Jesus commended the Roman centurion for his faith.)

Attention – to take thought of another and convey appropriate interest and support; to enter into another’s “world” (I Cor. 12:25). (Jesus entered ours.)

Comfort (empathy) – to come alongside with word, feeling and touch; to give consolation with tenderness (Rom. 12:15).  (Jesus wept with friends.)

Encouragement – to urge forward and positively persuade toward a goal              (I Thes. 5:11, Heb. 10:24). (Jesus sent his disciples out to do kingdom work.)

Respect – to value and regard highly; to convey great worth (Rom. 12:10).  (Jesus expressed value to the adulterous woman who was brought for judgment.)

Security – confidence of harmony in relationships; free from harm (Rom. 12:16a).  (Jesus promised to be with us “even to the end of the age”.)

Support – come alongside and gently help carry a load (Gal. 6:2).  (Jesus was with his disciples through celebration and challenging times and left His Spirit.)

*List was adapted from Intimate Encounters Workbook, page 12; Relationship Press, POBox 201808, Austin

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