In the digital age, advice is readily available at our fingertips. From Reddit relationship advice threads to self-help books, there's no shortage of guidance on how to navigate our relationships. But how reliable is this advice? And how does it compare to the wisdom found in God's word?
The Pitfalls of Reddit Relationship Advice
Reddit, a popular online platform, hosts numerous threads where users seek and give relationship advice. While these threads can offer diverse perspectives, they also have their limitations.
The advice given is often based on personal experiences and opinions, which may only sometimes be applicable or beneficial to your unique situation. Furthermore, the platform's anonymity can sometimes lead to harsh or insensitive comments, which can do more harm than good.
In contrast, the Bible offers timeless wisdom on relationships. It teaches us to
let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. - Romans 12:9.
This scripture encourages us to love genuinely, reject harmful actions, and embrace what is beneficial.
The Power of Love in Relationships
One common issue in relationships is the tendency to make everything about oneself. This self-centeredness, which we refer to as the PROBLEM or the "Flashing ME," can lead to unnecessary suffering in relationships.
You might find advice on Reddit suggesting communication techniques or compromise to solve this issue. While these can be useful strategies, they seldom address the root of the problem.
The Bible, however, offers a different perspective. It teaches us that love is the solution to relationship problems. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, it says,
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Most importantly, God tells us in His straightforward approach that love is a DECISION, not something that happens to you. You do not "fall into" or "fall out of" love. A good, practical definition of love is
Pursuing their best patiently, kindly, sacrificially, and unconditionally.
That does not happen to you; it is something you choose in any relationship.
Trusting God's Word
While Reddit relationship advice can offer quick, diverse, and modern perspectives, it's essential to remember that God's word provides enduring wisdom that has guided countless individuals throughout history. It encourages us to love selflessly, act with kindness, and pursue the best for others, regardless of their actions.
While Reddit relationship advice can be helpful, it's crucial to approach it with discernment and consider the timeless wisdom found in God's word. After all, as Proverbs 3:5-6 says,
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Your Choice
Ultimately, the choice is yours. It comes down to who is your "Who said so." In other words, you may not believe in God, and your "Who said so" is someone or something other than God. The "Who said so" of your life is the critical component that drives your thinking. Unfortunately, that is all too often ourselves, not the Creator of the Universe - the Almighty, PERFECT God of the Bible.
Will you rely solely on the advice of strangers on the internet, or will you also seek wisdom from a source that has stood the test of time? Remember, a great relationship is not just about finding the right advice but, most importantly, about consistently choosing to love someone with patience, kindness, sacrifice, and without conditions.