The following biblical principles can help you build healthy relationships through good communication, conflict resolution, forgiveness, and boundaries.

Communication

“Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.” - Ephesians 4:15 NLT

Here’s your tip: Be honest and be kind. Listen well and avoid harsh words.

The Bible tells us that a great communication tactic is to speak the truth in love. Truth and love must be evident in our communication at all times.

Conflict Resolution

“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. 16 But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. 17 If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector.” - Matthew 18:15

Here’s your tip: Address issues directly and seek peace.

Matthew 18:15 lays out exactly how conflict resolution should take place:

1) If anyone wrongs you, first and foremost, go to that person directly. Let them know what bothered you. If they listen and accept that what they did was wrong, the issue is settled.

2) If they do not listen, it’s time to involve a third party. This could be family, friends, or trusted a counselor.

3) If they still refuse to listen, involve your pastor or leadership at your local church.

Forgiveness

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” - Colossians 3:13 NLT

Here’s your tip: Let go of grudges and forgive.

God has freely forgiven us; therefore, we must freely forgive others. In reality, the only person unforgiveness hurts is you. If you’re holding onto grudges to hurt someone else, chances are they don’t feel a thing. Release yourself and forgive.

Boundaries

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” - Proverbs 4:23

Here’s your tip: Set and respect healthy boundaries.

In relationships, boundaries are necessary for health. However, if boundaries are undefined and uncommunicated, they don’t do anyone any good! Set clear boundaries for yourself and respect the boundaries set by the other person in the relationship to foster a healthy alliance.

These principles can help you create loving, respectful, and strong relationships.