RELATIONSHIPS “A connection between people”
RELACIONES “Una conexión entre la gente”

  • Relationships are good for everybody. 
  • We all need to be connected to somebody. 
  • Yes, it takes work for more than one to agree.
  • Quality of life is better when it’s more than 1. 
  • It’s good:  to connect; to have relationships. 

AGREEING IS CONNECTING 
ACORDAR ES CONECTAR
“If two of you agree concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you…where two or three gather together in my name, I am there.” - Matthew‬ ‭18:19-20‬
“Si dos de ustedes acuerdan con respecto a cualquier cosa que pidan, mi Padre lo hará…donde se reúnen dos o tres en mi nombre, yo estoy allí.” - Mateo‬ ‭18:19-20‬ ‭
  • Connecting is agreeing even if you don’t 100%. 
  • Agreeing invites God into the picture. 
  • Arrangement on a praise song. 

MAKE THE CONNECTION WORK 
HAZ QUE LA CONEXIÓN FUNCIONE
“Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” - Ecclesiastes‬ ‭7:8‬ ‭
“Mejor es el fin de una cosa que su principio, y el paciente en espíritu es mejor que el orgulloso de espíritu.” - Eclesiastés 7:8
  • The beginning of any relationship is exciting. 
  • Making the connection work is the best part.
  • Relay (relevo) race — pass the baton (batuta). 

2 IS BETTER THAN 1 
2 ES MEJOR QUE 1
“Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” - Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4:12‬ ‭
“Aunque uno puede ser dominado por otro, dos pueden resistirlo. Y un cordón de tres dobles no se rompe rápidamente.” - Ecclesiastes‬ 4:12
  • Two are better than one — three even better. 
  • The power of connecting is multiplied. 
  • The three Hebrews in the fiery furnace.

QUALITY BETTER THAN QUANTITY 
CALIDAD MEJOR QUE CANTIDAD
“A man of many companions may come to a ruin.” - Proverbs 18:24
“Un hombre de muchos compañeros puede llegar a una ruina.” - Proverbios 18:24
  • Connect to quality - it’s better than quantity.
  • It’s about quality connection - too many bad connections can actually ruin a person.
  • What does it take to Connect?  Nourish, Take Care, & Stay in Touch. 
  • God connects you to those who matter most.
  • It begins with connecting with him. 
  • Make sure that connection is strong. 
  • The success of all your relationships depend on the strength of the connection of your relationship with God. 
  • If that’s strong, He will connect you to the best relationships you can have in life.

CONCLUSION
MY BEST RELATIONSHIP IS BEING CONNECTED TO JESUS 
MI MEJOR RELACIÓN ES ESTAR CONECTADO A JESÚS 
OH MOM! “Relationship with my mother“
¡AY MAMÁ! “Relación con mi madre”

​[Jeremiah cried out to his mom], “What sorrow is mine, my mother. Oh, that I had died at birth! I am hated everywhere I go.” - Jeremiah‬ ‭15:10‬ ‭
[Jeremías clama a su mamá], ¡Qué aflicción tengo, madre mía! ¡Oh, si hubiera muerto al nacer! En todas partes me odian.” - Jeremías‬ ‭15:10‬ ‭

[INTRODUCTION]
  • Everybody says “oh mom” differently. Why?
  • Everybody has a unique relationship with mom.
  • My relationship with my mother was great. 
  • She was a great influence and a lot of FUN. 
  • Moms definitely have lasting influence over us. 
  • We think of them and say “Oh Mom!”

A MOM’S INFLUENCE 
LA INFLUENCIA DE UNA MAMÁ
“What are you doing, my son? What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?” - Proverbs 31:2
“¿Qué estás haciendo, hijo mío? ¿Qué haces, hijo de mi vientre? ¿Qué haces, hijo de mis votos?” - Proverbios 31:2
  • King Lemuel praises his mother - Queen mother obviously had influence over her son.
    • Remembers & writes his mothers sayings. 
    • Inspired by God to write. 

THE VOICE OF CONSCIENCE 
LA VOZ DE LA CONCIENCIA
“With Christ as my witness, I speak with utter truthfulness. My conscience and the Holy Spirit confirm it.” - Romans‬ ‭9:1‬ ‭
“Con Cristo de testigo hablo con toda veracidad. Mi conciencia y el Espíritu Santo lo confirman.” - Romanos‬ ‭9:1‬ ‭
  • The work of the conscience is to let us know whether we are right or not. 
  • A voice we recognize speaks truth to us. 
  • Who’s voice do you hear?
  • Who is your voice of conscience?  COMMENT
  • The voice of conscience keeps us right.

MOM’S GREATEST GIFT 
EL MAYOR REGALO DE MAMA 
[A woman told Jesus], “God bless your mother—the womb from which you came!” - Luke‬ ‭11:27‬ ‭
[Una mujer le dijo a Jesús] ¡Que Dios bendiga a tu madre, el vientre del cual saliste!” - Lucas‬ ‭11:27‬ ‭
  • Moms are givers — Moms wrapped money gifts. 
  • After life, there is a great and eternal gift every mom can give her children?
“I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.” - ‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭1:5‬ ‭
“Me acuerdo de tu fe sincera, pues tú tienes la misma fe de la que primero estuvieron llenas tu abuela Loida y tu madre, Eunice, y sé que esa fe sigue firme en ti.” - 2 Timoteo‬ ‭1:5‬ ‭
  • Paul reminds Timothy about his faith.
  • A mom’s faith is her gift to her  generations / La fe de una madre es su regalo a sus generaciones

MOM IS NOT PERFECT 
MAMA NO ES PERFECTA
“But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.” - Matthew‬ ‭5:48‬ ‭
“Pero tú debes ser perfecto, así como tu Padre en el cielo es perfecto.”  Mateo‬ ‭5:48‬ ‭
  • The challenge is be perfect - even for moms. 
  • This subject can cause a gamut of emotions. 
  • Maybe mom: Could’ve done better; Been there more; Be more expressive; Not pass away; etc.  
  • Eyes & Faith on God will help you be better. 
  • You are here because of your mom. 
  • You are who you are because of your mom. 
  • Mom’s influence will always remain with you. 
  • For good, or to do better, learn from mom.
  • You can relate and connect because of your relationship with mom — OH MOM, thanks!
CONCLUSION
OH GOD, THANK YOU FOR MY MOM
AY DIOS, GRACIAS POR MI MAMÁ ​
LOVE  IS IN THE AIR “How dating connections have developed” 
EL AMOR  ESTA EN EL AIRE “Como se han desarrollado las conexiones de salir”

“Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” - 2 Timothy‬ ‭2:22‬ ‭
“Huye de todo lo que estimule las pasiones juveniles. En cambio, sigue la vida recta, la fidelidad, el amor y la paz. Disfruta del compañerismo de los que invocan al Señor con un corazón puro.” - 2 Timoteo‬ ‭2:22‬ ‭
  • Relationships develop. 
  • A relationship grows & matures, otherwise it ends. 
  • Relationships also evolve from generation to generation. 
  • Let’s listen for sound advice on Love Is In the Air and “how dating connections have developed”. 

THE COMPANIONSHIP CONNECTION 
LA CONEXIÓN DE COMPAÑERISMO 
  • 2 Timothy 2:22 speaks to believers about relationships in general. 
  • However, it specifies running away from anything that stimulates youthful lusts?
  • How does one share 2 Timothy 2:22 using non-Christian verbiage / language?
  • God is for having a companionship connection and enjoying it — within moral means. 

THE DATING SCENE EVOLUTION 
LA EVOLUCIÓN DEL ESCENARIO DE SALIR
  • Dating, courtship, “the wooing” practices evolve / change from generation to another.
  • In My Time:  Holding hands; Kissing-minimal PDA; Park; Restaurant; & Home. 
  • 10 years later how was the dating scene for you?
  • Can you give us a few impressive historical examples on courtship practices?
  • No doubt the dating scene is different today. 

SOUND ADVICE ON DATING TODAY
CONSEJO SABIO SOBRE SALIR HOY
  • There is a saying that goes “the more things change the more they stay the same.”
  • One of those things is that people are still dating and falling in love - Love is still in the air.
  • DR. ELIU:  What would be your advice about the purpose of dating?
“Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’” - Matthew‬ ‭22:37‬; Luke 10:27; Deuteronomy 6:5
“Jesús contestó: —“Ama al Señor tu Dios con todo tu corazón, con toda tu alma y con toda tu mente” .” - Mateo‬ ‭22:37‬; Lucas 10:27; Deuteronomio 6:5
  • Falling in love is a good thing — a God thing. 
  • Godly love, in a relationship, benefits all. 
“Do not be deceived: bad company corrupts good character.” - I Corinthians‬ ‭15:33‬ ‭
“No se dejen engañar «las malas compañías corrompen el buen carácter».” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭15:33‬ ‭

  • Can you feel the love tonight?
  • Love is good — God is love. 
  • Part of relationship development includes dating, “wooing”, falling in love - with the purpose of a moral loving connection.
  • Tell somebody, “Love is in the air.”
CONCLUSION
LOVE IS IN THE AIR IN EVERY RELATIONSHIP CONNECTION
EL AMOR ESTÁ EN EL AIRE EN CADA CONEXIÓN DE RELACIÓN ​
CALLING  ALL DADS
“Connecting to a dad’s influence” 
LLAMANDO  A TODOS LOS PADRES
“Conectando con la influencia de un padre”

  • Now more than ever we are calling all dads. 
  • Obviously, no one can be a father like a dad can – his influence is immeasurable. 
  • Dad‘s provide basic needs and the balanced discipline that every child needs. 
  • We are calling all dads and dads we need to respond. 

WHAT IS A FATHER? 
¿QUE ES UN PADRE?
“You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not!” - Matthew 7:9-10“Ustedes , los que son padres, si sus hijos les piden un pedazo de pan, ¿acaso les dan una piedra en su lugar? O si les piden un pescado, ¿les dan una serpiente? ¡Claro que no!” - Mateo‬ ‭7:9-10‬ ‭
  • Father: One that originates, Source, Provider

A SPIRITUAL FATHER TO IMITATE 
UN PADRE ESPIRITUAL QUE IMITAR
“I am not writing these things to shame you, but to warn you as my beloved children. For even if you had ten thousand others to teach you about Christ, you have only one spiritual father. For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you. So I urge you to imitate me.” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭4:14-16‬ ‭“No les escribo estas cosas para avergonzarlos, sino para advertirles como mis amados hijos. Pues, aunque tuvieran diez mil maestros que les enseñaran acerca de Cristo, tienen solo un padre espiritual. Pues me convertí en su padre en Cristo Jesús cuando les prediqué la Buena Noticia. Así que les ruego que me imiten.” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭4:14-16‬ ‭
  • TRAIN metaphor
  • Father - Engineer, Mother - Assistant Conductor, and Children the rest of the Rail Cars (vagones). 
  • Engineer and Assistant Conductor must be in one accord for the train to run smooth and safely.
  • A Strong Rail Car (vagón) to Rail Car connection is a Must for the train to run smooth and safely.
  • Mistakes are an opportunity to teach and train (e.g., forgiveness, re-focus)
“Jesus explained, “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.” - John‬ ‭5:19‬ ‭“Jesús explicó: «Les digo la verdad, el Hijo no puede hacer nada por su propia cuenta; solo hace lo que ve que el Padre hace. Todo lo que hace el Padre, también lo hace el Hijo.” - Juan‬ ‭5:19‬ ‭
  • Children imitate the father’s actions and beliefs and takes them as “acceptable”.

A FATHER’S DISCIPLINE 
LA DISCIPLINA DEL PADRE
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” - Ephesians‬ ‭6:4‬ ‭“Padres, no hagan enojar a sus hijos con la forma en que los tratan. Más bien, críenlos con la disciplina e instrucción que proviene del Señor.” - Efesios‬ ‭6:4‬ ‭
  • Communication is discipline & expectation /consequence is correction.
“Which do you choose? Should I come with a rod to punish you, or should I come with love and a gentle spirit?”  1 Corinthians‬ ‭4:21‬“¿Qué prefieren? ¿Que llegue con una vara para castigarlos o que vaya con amor y un espíritu amable?” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭4:21‬ ‭
  • What do you prefer? The Rod of discipline or Love and gentle spirit.

BASIC NEEDS A FATHER PROVIDES 
NECESIDADES BÁSICAS QUE UN PADRE PROVEE
“My [son], listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction…if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!…don’t go along with them! Stay far away from their paths.” - Proverbs‬ ‭1:8, 10, 15‬“Hijo mío, presta atención cuando tu padre te corrige; no descuides la instrucción de tu madre…si los pecadores quieren engatusarte, ¡dales la espalda!…¡no vayas con ellos! Mantente alejado de sus caminos.” - Proverbios‬ ‭1:8, 10, 15‬ ‭
  • Solomon is offering crucial advice to his son.
  • The need to feel Loved, feel part of, and need to have influence.  
    • U TURN - McDonald’s
    • Luke / Lucas‬ ‭15:31‬
    • Let’s make them feel like at home. 
“And you know that we treated each of you as a father treats his own children.” - 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭2:11‬ ‭“Y saben que tratamos a cada uno como un padre trata a sus propios hijos.” - 1 Tesalonicenses‬ ‭2:11‬ ‭
  • Exhort, Encourage, Comfort. 
    • Training Wheels, Football
    • Listen to understand and don’t react. 
    • Money, housing and groceries are not necessarily “Love”.
  • Dads, are you hearing the call?
  • Some are doing a great job!
  • We can all do better in connecting with our influence. 
  • Inheritance from heaven. 
“And just as my Father has granted me a Kingdom, I now grant you the right” - Luke‬ ‭22:29‬“Así como mi Padre me concedió un reino, yo ahora les concedo el derecho” - Lucas‬ ‭22:29‬ ‭
    • Gives purpose, identity, responsibility, accountability, faith, hope, love.
  • Dad, you are needed now more than ever. 
  • Respond to the call. 
CONCLUSION
I WILL RESPOND TO THE CALL — I WILL BE A GREATER INFLUENCE
RESPONDERÉ A LA LLAMADA — SERÉ UNA MAYOR INFLUENCIA
​CALLING  ALL DADS II
“Connecting to a dad’s influence” 
LLAMANDO  A TODOS LOS PADRES II
“Conectando con la influencia de un padre”

  • We are calling all dads. 
  • Dad‘s provide basic needs and the balanced discipline that every child needs. 
  • We need to respond. 

WHAT IS A FATHER? 
¿QUE ES UN PADRE?
“So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.”  Matthew‬ ‭7:11‬ ‭
“Así que si ustedes, gente pecadora, saben dar buenos regalos a sus hijos, cuánto más su Padre celestial dará buenos regalos a quienes le pidan.” - Mateo‬ ‭7:11‬ ‭
  • Father is:  Foundation; One that originates; Source; Provider

A SPIRITUAL FATHER TO IMITATE 
UN PADRE ESPIRITUAL QUE IMITAR
“…you have only one spiritual father. For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you...” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭4:14-16‬ ‭
“…tienen solo un padre espiritual. Pues me convertí en su padre en Cristo Jesús cuando les prediqué la Buena Noticia...” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭4:14-16‬ ‭
“…Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.” - John‬ ‭5:19‬ ‭
“…Todo lo que hace el Padre, también lo hace el Hijo.” - Juan‬ ‭5:19‬ ‭
  • Children imitate the father’s actions and beliefs and takes them as “acceptable”.

A FATHER’S DISCIPLINE 
LA DISCIPLINA DEL PADRE
“Fathers…bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” - Ephesians‬ ‭6:4‬ ‭
“Padres…críenlos con la disciplina e instrucción que proviene del Señor.” - Efesios‬ ‭6:4‬ ‭
  • Discipline is:  Communication: Expectations; Consequences; from God.
“…rod to punish you, or love and a gentle spirit?”  1 Corinthians‬ ‭4:21‬
“…vara para castigarlos o amor y un espíritu amable?” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭4:21‬ ‭

BASIC NEEDS A FATHER PROVIDES 
NECESIDADES BÁSICAS QUE UN PADRE PROVEE
“My [son], listen...” - Proverbs‬ ‭1:8, 10, 15‬
“Hijo mío, presta atención...” - Proverbios‬ ‭1:8, 10, 15‬ ‭
  • Solomon makes a connection first. 
  • The need to feel Loved, feel part of, and need to have influence.  
    • “…everything I have is yours.” - Luke / Lucas‬ ‭15:31‬
    • Let’s make them feel like at home.
​And you know that we treated each of you as a father treats his own children.” - 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭2:11‬ ‭
“Y saben que tratamos a cada uno como un padre trata a sus propios hijos.” - 1 Tesalonicenses‬ ‭2:11‬ ‭
  • Exhort, Encourage, Comfort. 
    • Listen to understand and don’t react. 
    • Money, housing and groceries are not necessarily “Love”.
APPLICATION
  • Dads, you’re hearing the call?
  • Some are doing a great job!
  • Here’s the challenge - you can do better in connecting with your influence. 
  • Any final words on “calling all dads?”
  • ISRAEL - Inheritance from heaven. 
“And just as my Father has granted me a Kingdom, I now grant you the right” - Luke‬ ‭22:29‬
“Así como mi Padre me concedió un reino, yo ahora les concedo el derecho” - Lucas‬ ‭22:29‬ ‭
  • Gives purpose, identity, responsibility, accountability, faith, hope, love.
  • Dad, you are needed now more than ever. 
  • Respond to the call. 

CONCLUSION
I AM A MAN OF INFLUENCE - I AM A FATHER
YO SOY HOMBRE DE INFLUENCIA - YO SOY PADRE
TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS 
RELACIONES TÓXICAS 

“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” - Philippians‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭
“No sean egoístas; no traten de impresionar a nadie. Sean humildes, es decir, considerando a los demás como mejores que ustedes. No se ocupen solo de sus propios intereses, sino también procuren interesarse en los demás.” - Filipenses‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭

INTRODUCTION
  • Toxic means having the effect of Poison. 
  • In a relationship it’s unpleasant feelings; being harmful, malicious; & even “invisible toxicity”. 
  • A Toxic Relationship will eventually separate a relationship - TIME FOR A DETOX!
  • This will help cleanse the relationship from the effects of the poison & restore it to health.  

A FINE LINE FROM “HEALTHY TO TOXIC” 
UNA LÍNEA FINA DE “SALUDABLE A TÓXICA”
  • A fine line separates what is healthy or toxic. 
    • Too much or lack of attention. 
    • Babies “Fail to Thrive”. 
    • “The Golden Hour”. 
  • Can a marriage be misunderstood as toxic?
    • Wife wanting to know where husband is. 
    • Healthy care & accountability. 
"Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too." - Philippians‬ ‭2:4‬ ‭
“No se ocupen solo de sus propios intereses, sino también procuren interesarse en los demás.” - ‭‭Filipenses‬ ‭2:4‬ ‭

INVISIBLE TOXICITY 
TOXICIDAD INVISIBLE 
  • Not so evident sometimes.
  • Relationships that never disagree. 
“Cain said to his brother Abel, “Let’s go out to the field.” Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him.” - Genesis 4:8
“Dijo Caín a su hermano Abel: Salgamos al campo. Y acontencío que estando ellos en el campo, Caín se levanto contra su hermano Abel, y lo mató.” - agenesia 4:8
  • Anger & Envy can be toxic and destroy. 
“In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.” - Ephesians 5:28
“Así tambien los maridos deben amar a sus mujeres como a sus mismos cuerpos. El que ama a su mujer, a sí mismo se ama.” - Efesios 5:28
  • Marriage - man who doesn’t love himself. 
  • Myself - reflects on other relationships:  Driving habits; How I treat others, pets, etc.; relationship with God; even Alexa!
“No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit...” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭2:11‬
“Nadie puede conocer los pensamientos de una persona excepto el propio espíritu de esa persona...” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭2:11‬ ‭

HEALTHY TOXIC 
TÓXICA SANA
  • Sounds like an oxymoron - contradictory. 
  • A toxic is an active word - it affects. 
  • Healthy effect on those we relate to. 
    • Helping someone in need. 
    • Neglect, endanger or trespass your boundaries. 
    • Text your pastor once in a while; vital. 
    • Text your pastor every day…  
“…make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” - Philippians‬ ‭2:2‬ ‭
“…háganme verdaderamente feliz poniéndose de acuerdo de todo corazón entre ustedes, amándose unos a otros y trabajando juntos con un mismo pensamiento y un mismo propósito.” - Filipenses‬ ‭2:2‬ ‭
  • How are your relationships?  Healthy or Toxic?
  • Who truly matters to you?  The Other or You?
  • Be part of detoxing unhealthy relationships.
  • How?  Be unselfish, humble, open, & loving. 

​CONCLUSION
I CAN ENJOY HEALTHY, TOXIC FREE, RELATIONSHIPS
PUEDO DISFRUTAR DE RELACIONES SALUDABLES, LIBRES DE TOXINAS
TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS II “The Good & The Bad”
RELACIONES TÓXICAS II “Lo Bueno & Lo Malo”

Don’t be selfish & don’t try to impress others. Be humble & take an interest in others — Philippians‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭
No seas egoísta & no trates de impresionar a los demás. Se humilde & procura interesarte en los demás — Filipenses‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭
  • Toxic means having the effect of Poison. 
  • It can bring injury (lesiones) or death. 
  • In any relationship, the toxicity is evident in the emotional, verbal, & physical abuse. 
  • Some form of intervention is crucial & counsel is readily available. 
  • “Toxic relationships” is such a relevant issue. 
  • However,I heard it said, “I don’t like the term ‘Toxic Relationship’”. 
  • “Toxic relationship“ is a reality.
  • The sooner we acknowledge it the sooner we can deal with its poison. 
Good & Bad in Toxic & Non-Toxic Relationships:
AHAB & JEZEBEL — Deal with the Contamination
ACAB & JEZABEL — Trata con la Contaminación
1 Kings / Reyes 16, 18-21; 2 Kings / Reyes 9:30-36
  • Ahab & Jezebel are evil immoral rulers of Israel. 
  • He’s a wimp & envious for material things. 
  • She has lust for power & willing to use it. 
““Are you the king of Israel or not?” Jezebel demanded. “Get up and eat something, and don’t worry about it. I’ll get you Naboth’s vineyard!”” - 1 Kings‬ ‭21:7‬ ‭
“—¿Acaso no eres tú el rey de Israel? —preguntó Jezabel—. Levántate y come algo, no te preocupes por eso. ¡Yo te conseguiré el viñedo de Nabot!” - 1 Reyes‬ ‭21:7‬ ‭
  • He was loyal to her—She was not—promiscuous (promiscua)—many sexual partners. 
“When Jezebel heard that Jehu had come to Jezreel, she painted her eyelids and fixed her hair and sat at a window.” - 2 Kings‬ ‭9:30‬ ‭
“Cuando Jezabel supo que Jehú había llegado a Jezreel, se pintó los párpados, se arregló el cabello y se sentó frente a una ventana.” - 2 Reyes‬ ‭9:30‬ ‭
  • Jehu was anointed to take Ahab’s place. 
  • Much more to say - prevalent Jezebel spirit. 
“I have this complaint against you. You are permitting that woman—that Jezebel who calls herself a prophet—to lead my servants astray. She teaches them to commit sexual sin ...” - Revelation‬ ‭2:20‬ ‭
“engo una queja en tu contra. Permites que esa mujer —esa Jezabel que se llama a sí misma profetisa— lleve a mis siervos por mal camino. Ella les enseña a cometer pecado sexual...” - Apocalipsis‬ ‭2:20‬‭
  • The FOCUS is on their toxic relationship. 
  • The Good - We see how a relationship can function even through not ideal conditions. 
  • The Bad - The contamination was not dealt with. Poison not extracted kills any relationship. 
PAUL & BARNABAS — Valuing Mutual Agreement
PABLO & BERNABÉ — Valorando el Acuerdo Mutuo
Acts / Hechos 9, 11, 13-15
  • Believers feared Paul cuz of his violent past. 
  • Barnabas believed, defended, sought out Paul. 
“Both of them stayed [in Antioch] with the church for a full year, teaching large crowds of people.”- Acts 11:26‬
“Los dos se quedaron en [Antioquia] con la iglesia durante todo un año, enseñando a grandes multitudes.” - Hechos 11:26‬ ‭
  • Successful one year missionary trip. 
  • Second missionary trip didn’t begin so well. 
  • There was an issue with Mark joining the team. 
“Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. ” - Acts‬ ‭15:39‬ ‭
“Su desacuerdo fue tan intenso que se separaron.” - Hechos 15:39‬ ‭
“Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry.” - 2 Timothy‬ ‭4:11‬ ‭
“Trae a Marcos contigo cuando vengas, porque me será de ayuda en mi ministerio.” - 2 Timoteo‬ ‭4:11‬ ‭
  • The Good - In a healthy relationship, the integrnts believe and defend each other.
  • The Bad - Mutual agreement was not given it’s value.

AQUILA & PRISCILLA — Working Well Together
AQUILA & PRISCILA—TRABAJANDO BIEN JUNTOS
Acts / Hechos 18
  • Paul lived & worked with these tent makers.
  • He disciples them & entrusts them to teach.
“Priscilla and Aquila took Apollos aside and explained the way of God even more accurately.” - Acts‬ ‭18:26‬ ‭
“Cuando Priscila y Aquila lo escucharon predicar con valentía en la sinagoga, lo llevaron aparte y le explicaron el camino de Dios con aún más precisión.” - Hechos‬ ‭18:26‬ ‭
  • Paul honors them & their commitment. 
“Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. In fact, they once risked their lives for me.” - Romans‬ ‭16:3-4‬
“Den mis saludos a Priscila y Aquila, mis colaboradores en el ministerio de Cristo Jesús. De hecho, ellos una vez arriesgaron la vida por mí.” - Romanos‬ ‭16:3-4‬ ‭
  • An example of IDEAL working partners. 
  • The Good - We CAN co-exist and be soundly productive. 
  • The Bad - Unfortunately, some will try to find some fault in what is working well together.​
APPLICATION
  • There is good and bad in most anything. 
  • Perhaps you see it in your relationships. 
  • Strengthen the good & deal with the bad. 
  • God is with you through it all. 
[PRAYER]
  • Lord, it’s a blessing to be in relationship with you - you’re always good.
  • In our relationships, we need you more - it could be better. 
  • Help us to see and deal with the poison that contaminates our relationships. 
  • Teach us to value one another so we CAN work through it all — work well together. 
  • Through the good & bad, you are our good God. 
CONCLUSION]
I WILL STRENGTEN THE GOOD & DEAL WITH THE BAD
FORTALECERÉ LO BUENO & TRATARÉ CON LO MALO
​​RELATIONSHIPS
“Connection between people”
RELACIONES 
“Conexión entre la gente”

“Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” - Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4:12‬ ‭
“Aunque uno puede ser dominado por otro, dos pueden resistirlo. Y un cordón de tres dobles no se rompe rápidamente.” - Ecclesiastes‬ 4:12
[INTRODUCTION]
  • Healthy relationships are good for everybody. 
  • We all need to be connected to somebody. 
  • “In the beginning” we were made to relate. 
  • Can’t do life alone. Need healthy relationships.

TOPICAL Q&As  
P&R POR TEMAS
  • We are familiar with the term “my best friend“.
  • What makes a “best friend”?
    • Trust; Always there, Sharpens you. 
    • Proverbs / Proverbios 27:17
- - -
  • Some are wife & mother - husband & children.
  • How do the connections differ?
    • Nurture & help kids grow in all aspects.
    • Find ways to compliment each other. 
- - -
  • Singles are dating - looking, investing. 
  • What is the purpose of dating today?
    • To find a life long companion. 
    • Share interests-physical spiritual growth. 
- - -
  • We counsel many in all kinds of relationships. 
  • Father’s role in toxic relationships?
    • Healthy react  improves communication. 
    • Helicopter Father - hovers, over protects. 
- - -
  • All Christians get along. NOT!
  • How can believers do better?
    • Learn & experience love as Christ loves. 
    • Serve - we have the power to do better.

SUMMARY ON TOPICS
RESUMEN SOBRE LOS TEMAS
  • “Relationships Introduction”
    • It all starts with Jesus - best connection.
    • Success depends on relationship w/ God.  
  • “Oh Mom & Who’s the Boss”
    • Learning & strengthen good, change bad.
    • Don’t stress who’s boss - work together. 
  • “Love is in the air”
    • 2 Timothy / Timothy 1:7
    • God does not give fear. 
    • Don’t be afraid to communicate. 
  • “Calling all Dads & Toxic Relationships”
    • What a father does, the child will imitate. 
    • Acknowledge toxicity & work on it. 
    • Philippians / Filipenses 4:13
  • “One Another”
    • We are a super diverse “Family of God”. 
    • God chose nobodies - made us free.
[APPLICATION]
  • You need to have healthy relationships. 
  • You cannot live life alone – no one can. 
  • Words of advice as it relates to relationships:
    • Listen—Nourish, Take Care, Stay in Touch.
    • Communication—with God - your guide.
    • Honesty—be true to who you are. 
    • Forgiveness—an opportunity to reconnect.
    • Freedom—Use it to sharpen one another.
  • Above all, healthy connections begin with a healthy relationship with Jesus Christ.
CONCLUSION
TO CONNECT WELL WITH OTHERS I WILL FIRST HAVE A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS
PARA CONECTAR BIEN CON OTROS PRIMERO TENDRÉ UNA RELACIÓN SALUDABLE CON JESÚS
RELATIONSHIPS - “Follow-Up”
RELACIONES - “Seguimiento”

“Let’s go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.”- Acts‬ ‭15:36‬ ‭
“Volvamos a visitar cada una de las ciudades donde ya antes predicamos la palabra del Señor para ver cómo andan los nuevos creyentes».” - Hechos‬ ‭15:36‬ ‭
  • Every relationship needs follow-up. 
  • There is purpose in this effort. 
  • A fellow-minister shared with me some very practical advice on follow-up. 
  • It would do us well to listen…
  • …because every relationship needs follow-up. 

THE PURPOSE OF FOLLOW-UP
EL PROPÓSITO DEL SEGUIMIENTO
Acts / Hechos 9:10-18; 13:38-44; 14:21-23; 16:1-5
  • The purpose of follow-up is immeasurable. 
  • The Book of Acts is all about “Follow-Up”. 
  • Ananias ministers > Saul > apostle Paul
  • Paul discipled > Christians > birth churches 
  • Church loved > Timothy > pastor a great church
  • The purpose of “follow-up” goes beyond our reach and years. 

FOLLOW-UP TAKES EFFORT
EL SEGUIMIENTO REQUIERE ESFUERZO
  • "Follow-Up" - is the process of ongoing personal investment and communication.”
  • Pr. Gloria - marriages - “learn from each other & work together.
  • Dr. Eliu - dating couples -  “grow as a couple physically & spiritually. 
  • Cr. Israel - parents -  “what a father does, the child will imitate - the train. 
  • Ps. Fernando - “iron sharpens iron”
“And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful!” - Psalms‬ ‭90:17‬ ‭
“Y que el Señor nuestro Dios nos dé su aprobación y haga que nuestros esfuerzos prosperen. Sí, ¡haz que nuestros esfuerzos prosperen!” - Salmos‬ ‭90:17‬ ‭

PRACTICAL ADVICE ON FOLLOW-UP
CONSEJO PRÁCTICO SOBRE EL SEGUIMIENTO
  • Advice from loving Parents…
“Follow advice & Treasure commands.” - Proverbs‬ ‭7:1‬ ‭
“Sigue consejo & Atesora mandatos.” - Proverbios‬ ‭7:1‬ ‭
  • Advice from wise relatives…
“Listen to advice & Follow suggestions.” - Exodus‬ ‭18:24‬ ‭
“Escucha el consejo & Sigue recomendaciones.” - Éxodo‬ ‭18:24‬ ‭
  • Advice from good friends…
“How you have enlightened my stupidity! What wise advice you have offered!” - Job‬ ‭26:3‬ ‭
“¡Cómo has iluminado mi estupidez! ¡Qué consejo tan sabio has ofrecido!” - Job‬ ‭26:3‬ ‭
  • PARENTING ROLES CHANGE
ROLES DE CRIANZA CAMBIAN
  • UNCONDITIONAL LOVE ALWAYS
AMOR INCONDICIONAL SIEMPRE 
  • PRAYER IS A MUST 
LA ORACIÓN ES UNA NECESIDAD

[APPLICATION]
  • Has this advice blessed you?  It’s blessed me. 
  • I comprehend that following up on relationships takes time and effort — I truly do. 
  • But there is purpose behind it, and, isn’t “Follow-Up” what Jesus does for us…
“I will ask the Father to send you the Holy Spirit who will:  help you; be with you; teach you; remind you; tell you; do for you; and show the truth.” - John‬ ‭14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7, 8; 16:13‬ ‭
“Pediré al Padre que les envíe el Espíritu Santo para que:  les ayude; esté con vosotros; les enseñe; les recuerde; les cuente; haga para ustedes; y muestre  la verdad.” - Juan‬ € 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7, 8; 16:13
  • God is in relationship with you — He’s following up on you. 
  • You can do the same in your relationships.
[PRAYER]
  • Lord, thank you for being in relationship with us. 
  • Thank you Holy Spirit for following-up on us. 
  • Minister to our hearts to love our relationships. 
  • Open our understanding to appreciate the purpose & effort of following up. 
  • Help us to follow the advice of Your Word and Your servants. 
  • In Jesus name, amen. 

CONCLUSION
GOD IS WITH ME SO I CAN FOLLOW-UP ON OTHERS
DIOS ESTÁ CONMIGO PARA QUE PUEDA DAR SEGUIMIENTO A OTRO