REDFLAGS IN RELATIONSHIPS "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death." – Proverbs 14:12 (NIV) Not every relationship that seems good is truly good. Many times, what appears right in our eyes may lead to heartbreak, compromise, or even destruction. Proverbs 14:12 warns us that without God’s wisdom, we can be deceived by our emotions or desires. This is why it’s crucial to recognize red flags in relationships — warning signs that something is not aligned with God’s will. A major red flag is when a relationship pulls you away from God rather than drawing you closer to Him. If your walk with Christ begins to suffer, if you start compromising your faith, or if you find yourself justifying sin, it’s time to step back and evaluate. A godly relationship should strengthen your faith, not weaken it (2 Corinthians 6:14). Love should never require you to compromise your relationship with God. Another warning sign is unhealthy control, manipulation, or lack of respect. Love, according to Scripture, is patient, kind, and not self-seeking (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). A relationship built on fear, guilt, or emotional manipulation is not from God. If someone constantly disregards your feelings, pressures you into decisions, or makes you feel worthless, these are clear signs of an unhealthy dynamic. True love values and honors, rather than controls or devalues. Dishonesty and lack of integrity are also crucial red flags. A person who lies, hides things, or lacks transparency cannot be trusted with your heart. Jesus calls us to walk in truth (John 8:32), and any relationship that is built on deceit will eventually collapse. The same applies to abusive behavior — whether verbal, emotional, or physical. Love does not harm (Ephesians 5:25). If a relationship is draining your peace, joy, and sense of self-worth, it is not from God. Recognizing red flags is not about being judgmental, but about being wise. God desires for His children to experience relationships that reflect His love, peace, and truth. When you ignore warning signs, you risk walking a path that leads to pain rather than purpose. The Holy Spirit gives discernment, listen to Him! Do not allow emotions to blind you to what God is trying to show you. Meditate! Am I overlooking red flags because of my emotions, or am I seeking God’s wisdom in my relationships? Pray! Lord, open my eyes to see relationships as You see them. Give me wisdom and courage to walk away from anything that does not honor You. Strengthen my heart to desire Your best for my life. Amen. Act! Take an honest look at your relationships. Are there any red flags you’ve been ignoring? Seek godly counsel, pray for discernment, and be willing to let go of anything that hinders your walk with Christ. Read! Proverbs 3:5-6, 2 Corinthians 6:14, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Ephesians 5:25, Matthew 7:16-20. God does not call you into relationships that destroy you. Walk in wisdom, trust His guidance, and choose His best for your life! SpiritWord × February 27, 2025 (C) Oluremi. OmuAjose, Ijebu. = Thank you for receiving The Word. To get it directly on WhatsApp, please follow our channel http://bit.ly/40W151F. March edition of LAMBANO holds by 10am this Saturday. Here's a divine opportunity to redeem the time and take hold of God's promises. Today, join us online via https://bit.ly/41dqnIJ or onsite at 5:30pm (WAT) as we gather for another DEEPDIVE. You can also be part of CAMPUS KINGDOM DECREES by 4am (WAT). For Counselling and/or Intercession, kindly mail [email protected]. Know someone looking to build a solid foundation in their Christian walk? Encourage them to join the Believers' Foundational Class! For details, email [email protected]. To get updates, partner/donate and other inquiries related to our ministry operations, please reach us via mail or Whatsapp. See you at 20:45 (NGR) for BUILDUP. https://bit.ly/4jDJORV.