Day 2

Read:

Jeremiah 29:6

Dig Deeper:

Did you know that only one-third of single young adults are actively dating with that same amount expressing that they had any amount of confidence in their dating skills? I bet you weren’t expecting to read that in your devotional today. This harrowing statistic is not just a random number, this is a generational crisis. It only makes sense that we are experiencing an epidemic of social loneliness, isolation, and mental distress when about 66% of a generation is either unwilling or unable to connect romantically, arguably one of the greatest joys God has given us in this life.

In fact, in Genesis 2, after God creates, well…everything…, He says this:

“The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”’ Genesis 2:18, NIV

God is a relational God, and as human beings, born out of relationship and made in his image, we too are relational beings. We’re designed for connection with one another. It’s in our very DNA.

So if we’re made for it, why aren’t we doing it? Sociologists may have a thousand theories that are all probably very valid from fourth wave feminism to the normalization of pornography to dopamine addiction and beyond. What lies at the root of all of these things, however, is fear. Men are afraid of women, and women are afraid of men. And, in some ways, rightly so. Relationships can be wonderful, but also deeply painful. Through relationships we experience connection, but also rejection, and rejection hurts. Sometimes, it even hurts physically. Researchers have found that when one experiences a break-up they can actually go through the same withdrawal symptoms as a drug addict.

In spite of this risk, God still knowingly gave the command, “Be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28). Why would he do this? Because we were wired for love. Because God knew that the reward highly outweighs the risk. Because the purpose found in community can heal us from the sickness found in isolation. And because even pain and suffering becomes a helpful, soul-shaping tool when placed in the hands of God. So, we don’t have to fear rejection. Instead, we can embrace our relationships each day and surrender them, whether positive or painful, into the hands of God.

So, when it comes to relationships, where do we start? Here and now. Don’t delay your start out of fear. Start today.

Declaration: Say this next statement out loud as a declaration of what you have learned today.

I don’t have to fear rejection because God walks with me in every moment. He will equip me with what I need for today. I will not isolate. I will pursue relationships with wisdom and an open heart.

Pray:

God, you have made me for relationships. Help me to have the courage to pursue relationships with others and be open to connection. Equip me with the skills I need to connect with others. Heal me from my past hurts and give me a new perspective. I trust you with my heart. Amen.