Daily devotion

You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.

— JIM ROHN

In 1955 Rosa Parks made a decision that would change the course of history when she refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus. Her quiet courage sparked the Civil Rights Movement, but Parks didn’t act alone. Her strength came, in part, from the community around her—mentors, friends, and leaders who shared her vision for justice and equality. Among them were figures like Martin Luther King Jr., E. D. Nixon, and Jo Ann Robinson, who supported and encouraged her actions. Parks’s story reminds us that relationships can either uplift us toward our purpose or hinder us from achieving it.

Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” This verse underscores the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who inspire and encourage us in our faith and purpose.

Conducting a relationship audit means taking an honest look at the connections in your life. Are they helping you grow, or are they pulling you away from the person God is calling you to be? This doesn’t mean cutting people off harshly but rather setting boundaries that protect your emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being.

Psychologists have long studied the impact of relationships on well-being, and the findings are clear: The people you spend the most time with significantly influence your habits, mindset, and even your happiness. Toxic relationships can drain your energy and focus, while uplifting relationships can propel you toward your goals.

Start your audit by categorizing your relationships into three groups: those who pour into you, those you pour into, and those that feel draining. Reflect on how much time and energy you’re dedicating to each group. Are there imbalances that need to be addressed? Perhaps you’re giving too much to relationships that leave you feeling depleted or not investing enough in those that bring you joy and growth.

Rosa Parks’s story also reminds us of the importance of community. As you conduct your audit, consider whether you have a circle of people who challenge you, encourage you, and share your values. If not, ask God to bring those relationships into your life. Sometimes building meaningful connections requires stepping out of your comfort zone and seeking new communities.

A relationship audit isn’t just about evaluating others; it’s also an opportunity to reflect on your own role in relationships. Are you encouraging others, or are you unintentionally contributing to negativity? Are you a source of love and good deeds, as Hebrews calls us to be?

By taking the time to evaluate your connections and set healthy boundaries, you create space for relationships that align with your purpose and strengthen your faith. Surround yourself with those who spur you on, and strive to be that person for others. In doing so, you’ll cultivate a network of love, support, and encouragement that reflects God’s design for community.

LORD, thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life. Help me to evaluate my relationships with wisdom and love, setting boundaries where needed and investing in connections that honor You. Teach me to be a source of encouragement and strength for others, and guide me in building a community that reflects Your love and purpose. AMEN.