Top Ten Relational Needs

Ten Relational Needs*

(Addressed by Jesus)

Acceptance – deliberate and ready reception with a favorable positive response, even after failure (Rom. 15:7). (Jesus accepted Peter ever after Peter’s failure.  John 21:17)

Affection – to communicate care and closeness through physical touch and words (Rom. 16:16). (Jesus loved his disciples.  John 13:1 - Jesus touched and healed the leper. Matt. 8:3)

Appreciation – to communicate with words and feelings a personal gratefulness for another (1 Cor. 11:2).  (Jesus welcomed children, was not bothered by them. Mark 10:14)

Approval – expressed commendation; to think and speak well of (Rom. 14:18). (Jesus commended the Roman centurion for his faith. Luke 7:9)

Attention – to take thought of another and convey appropriate interest and support; to enter into another’s “world” (1 Cor. 12:25).  (Jesus left the Father to enter our world. Phil. 2:6-8)

Comfort (Empathy) – to come alongside with word, feeling, and touch; to give consolation with tenderness (Rom. 12:15).  (Jesus wept with friends. John 11:35)

Encouragement – to urge forward and positively persuade toward a goal (1 Thess. 5:11, Heb. 10:24).  (Jesus sent his disciples out to do kingdom work.  John 14:12)

Respect – to value and regard highly; to convey great worth (Rom. 12:10).  (Jesus valued the adulterous woman brought for judgment.  John 8:10-11)

Security – confidence of harmony in relationships; free from harm (Rom. 12:16a).  (Jesus promises to be with us “even to the end of the age.” Matt. 28:20)

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.  John 14:18)

*List was adapted from Intimate Encounters Workbook, page 12; Relationship Press, PO Box 201808, Austin, Texas.