People can fake it, and others can pretend to be who they are not for their own selfish gains. It is important for us to identify the signs that a relationship won’t work so that we can spare ourselves disappointment and heartache. God desires that we build solid relationships for the glory and honor of His name. His plan is for us to have fulfilling relationships that bring joy.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV) – “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
Yes, God wants us to be in healthy relationships that can inspire our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. However, when this is not the case, He will reveal to us that the relationship will not work. Anything that is not of God cannot stand. This applies to our relationships too. If God does not approve them, they will never work however much we try.
What Are the Signs That God Does Not Approve of a Relationship?
God will make certain things happen to show you that your relationship is not His plan for you. He is the one who gives us the grace to be patient with others and to persevere when challenges arise. But when our relationship is against His will, His grace will not be sufficient for us to persevere.
Signs That a Relationship Won’t Work
1. Lack of Trust
Trust is one of the fundamental aspects of any relationship. Without trust, there is no relationship. If you notice a consistent lack of trust, fights about dishonesty, or betrayal, God may be revealing something to you. A person who wants to build a lasting relationship with you will always be careful not to break your trust. They will try all they can to be open and true to you.
2. Lack of Proper Communication
Effective communication is one of the foundation stones that sustain a relationship. When you notice that your partner is always trying to avoid it, think twice. A communication barrier is a clear sign that your relationship may hit the rock anytime.
3. Constant Conflicts
Disagreements and conflicts are a normal part of any relationship. However, ongoing and unresolved conflicts are warning signs that your relationship is not what God intends for you. If you notice that you are always arguing and finding it hard to settle on common ground, it isn’t for you. It won’t last. Do not invest your emotions and your energy in such a relationship.
4. Lack of Shared Values
Philippians 2:2 (NIV) – “Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”
Shared values, priorities, interests, and future goals play a great role in the stability of any relationship. They help create a sense of purpose, unity, and harmony. If you and your partner always experience differences in core values and lifetime choices, maybe it is time to let it go. You don’t want to build a relationship that will have endless conflicts in the future because you do not share values and interests.
5. When the Relationship Affects Your Relationship with God, It Won’t Last
Any relationship that does not draw you closer to God or help you grow spiritually is not a good relationship. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, the Bible says that everything we do must give glory to God. How is your relationship glorifying God.? Does it honor God? Anytime you notice that your relationship is pulling you away from God, step back and examine it.
Conclusion
Do not force it; watch out for the signs, and accept that it is not the plan of God. Do not ignore the signals from God, and don’t allow yourself to be blinded by anything. Ending a relationship that is not working is not easy, but it can also open the door to a more fulfilling one.