I was chatting with some friends today about relationships and life in general and we were talking about red flags. I have a four-month rule when it comes to relationships and especially when we are looking to share a life with that special someone or in business dealings. When we first meet a person it's normal to want to make a good impression and people can work very hard to impress and win people over both in personal and business relationships.
Unfortunately, that can also mean that they aren't initially their true selves, but rather someone they think you would like, trust or fall for. If they're not being honest or real however the cracks will start to show at around the 3- 4 month mark because any pretence will be revealed and the energy to keep up behaviours that are not really indicative of their usual behaviours and beliefs will start to wane and reveal the "real" person and their intentions. That's when red flags can start to appear. They are those behaviours and actions that send us a message that something is not quite right and for our own good we would be wise to pay attention and adjust accordingly. Nobody is perfect, and we are all a work in progress, but God does give us wisdom if we ask Him, to be able to recognise what is authentic, true and going to bring connection and opportunity into our lives. It's also important to give people time and space to work through their issues or become confident enough to let the masks they may be hiding behind down. However, don't ignore the red flags God reveals in the process. They are there to guide, protect and teach you about the way you should go and who to have up close and personal in your world or to partner with in a professional relationship.
Plus for every red flag in our world warning us to be aware and careful, God has as an alternative avenue of people, places and new opportunities which have His favour, peace and blessing on them. Look for those signs that He is directing you in everywhere you go and in the people, you meet and everything will be fine.
Jesus is the good shepherd and He will lead you to "green pastures", provide what you need and long for and restore your soul. (Psalm 23)
"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake."(Psalm 23;1-3)
"How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!" (Proverbs 16:16)
"Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice." (Proverbs 13:10)
Prayer: Lord please give me wisdom and help me to pay attention both to the red flags and the signs of favour and blessing on relationships and opportunities you reveal to me so that I can walk in your best plan and path for me. In Jesus name Amen.
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