Our relationships with others should reflect our relationship with the Lord.  Moving from performance-based relationships into relationships that are marked by God’s eternal covenant is essential for the believer.  Not only should this be evident in marriages, but in all of our relationships.  This is the biblical framework for parenting, friendships, co-worker relationships, acquaintances, and our relationship with the world. 

The Lord wants you to be in salty relationships. Mark 9:50

1. “Salt is good for seasoning.” (Mark 9:50a)

What is salt?

• Salt is a reminder of God’s eternal covenant. (Lev 2:13)
• Salt is a reminder of your identity. (Matthew 5:13a)
• Warning: You can lose your saltiness! (Mark 9:50b)

2. Remember: Salt loses its flavor by being corrupted with impurities.

Covenant        vs.        Contract

Relational                    Performance

Unconditional             Conditional

Grace                          Comparison

Truth                           Negotiation

3. Relationships go wrong when you get covenant and contract mixed up. 

• You can revolutionize your relationships. (Mark 9:50c)

1. Decide what you want.
   1. What kind of spouse, parent, family member, friend, co-worker, or acquaintance do you want to be?
   2. God’s will or your will?
2. Be real about where you are.
   1. What is it like for God to be in relationship with me.
   2. What is it like for others to be in relationship with me?
3. Lead yourself well
4. Cultivate harmony
   1. See the person, not the problem.
   2. Speak wisely. (Colossians 4:6)
   3. Listen well. (James 1:19)
   4. Follow the nudge.

Final Thought: Be salty in your relationships.