Session #12 - Relationships

 I - Review
* For the past three sessions, we have discussed Jesus' invitation to follow Him and to get to know Him.
* We start this process by getting to know Him through His Word (the Bible) and also by speaking with Him (Prayer).
* In summary - Jesus is always inviting us to have a RELATIONSHIP with Him and His Church.
* How do you define "relationship"?

II - Hurts, Habits, and Hang-ups

*Which character do you identify with?
* Have you ever been hurt?
* How can our hurts, habits or hangups influence out ability to form relationships with God and others?

III - What is a relationship? What is its purpose?

* God created us to live in community. To love and be loved. This comes from family, friendships, even acquaintances!
* Relationships can either help us grow, or guide us to a road that leads to nowhere. Hence you must choose wisely who you spend time with!

IV - Love and Relationships
* Many of the most important decisions in your life will be influenced by the people you love/spend most time with: friends, parents, community, etc.
* But... what is love?

V - The decision is yours
* In the end, we must always make a decision to be love or not. Love is not a feeling, it is a choice.
* As mentioned in past sessions, there are things that can take us away from God, Who is Love. Who we surround ourselves with helps us with this decision.
* Love requires sacrifice as well. It is not always easy. However, try love will ALWAYS help you become the person God has designed you to be.
* You should always help those you love to be the best version of who they are. And those who truly love you, will do the same.
* Lastly - the best version of yourself will lead you to sainthood. Real love will always lead to permanent happiness (see session #2 for examples of temporary vs. permanent happiness).

HOMEWORK (due on 1/23/22)
1. Read Luke: chapter 6/verse 31 AND Proverbs: chapter 12/verse 20
        - What do these readings tell you about what friendship is?
2. Who are the most important people in your life? Why?
3. What was the most interesting point you learned about relationships in this session?