Here’s what positive relationships at church really look like

What do you see in the relationships in your church? When you think about people interacting, what comes to mind?

When I ask pastors this, many of them are quick to point out the challenges or frustrations. And I understand. It’s easy to focus on the negative people and interactions and spend a lot of time discussing them (if not complaining).

But here’s what we know. Focusing on what’s working and how to get more of it is vastly more productive.

Here are five characteristics of positive relationships at church:

Growth: People are growing in their relationships with each other and with God. They may serve in one capacity together, then create their own projects. Or they may move from only attending on Sunday to becoming a member of the church. Growth is evident.

Responsibility: People can take responsibility for their own part in relationships. They don’t blame others and actively work on their own “stuff.”

Positivity: People in your church spend more time talking positively than negatively – especially in regard to how they communicate to and about one another.

Lightness: They have a sense of humor. When things go wrong, they can see the lighter side and even seek it out.

You can assess your own congregation for how often you see this kind of behavior, and celebrate it when you see it. And, even more importantly, you can assess yourself and how you relate to others. Remember, you can always relate to others this way, whether or not they approach you positively.

Blessings,

Margaret