Friday, June 12, 2026

Bible in a Year: Judges 1-3 | Ephesians 3

Life is quite the journey, isn’t it? 

Why is that? And why do the people around us have such a profound impact on where we end up? 

Maybe it’s because the journey of life was never meant to be walked alone. Each relationship - every friend, mentor, or companion - shapes the road we travel. Sometimes, the path twists and turns in ways we never expected, simply because of who is walking beside us.

Understanding why this influence matters is key to embracing the journey itself. It invites us to reflect on both our direction and the influence of those around us.

This influence is not about opportunistically choosing people for their benefits, but rather, about seeking meaningful relationships. Relationships that help us focus on what really matters, gently point us back to Jesus, and remind us of the truth can shape our journey.

In Mark 2:1-12, we read about a paralyzed man who was healed by Jesus. But this story also shows that the paralyzed man was healed because his friends brought him to Jesus. They moved him to where he needed to be, and when the man met Jesus, everything changed.

That kind of community still matters.

Galatians 5:13
For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.

We are called to serve one another in love. That’s the kind of relationship that transforms us. It’s not just about spending time with people who are fun or familiar, but spending time with people who are willing to help us reprioritize Jesus, even when it’s hard.

When we step back and look at the bigger picture, it all comes together: A purpose-driven, joy-filled life isn’t accidental. It’s built through intentionally choosing the right relationships.

Each part of our journey, the people we choose, the direction we take, and the faith that anchors us, is connected. It isn’t just about reaching a destination, but about walking alongside others who point us to something greater than ourselves. 

In a world that often tempts us to walk alone or chase after our own desires, choosing community and keeping Jesus at the center gives our journey purpose and meaning. That’s why every relationship, every step, every act of love matters. It’s all part of the story God is writing through us.

Questions: 
Who are the people in your life who consistently point you back to Jesus?

Which of your relationships encourage you to grow in your faith? 

Are there any that might be leading you away from your purpose?

Next Steps: 
Take time this week to thank someone who has helped you grow spiritually.

Consider reaching out to a friend, group, or mentor who can support you on your journey. Can’t think of any? Find Your Group

If there are areas of your life in which you’d like to better connect with God, review the strengths and opportunities from Your Journey assessment on the More tab in the CedarCreek App. Explore one of the Your Journey domains and try a growth strategy or resource that draws you closer to God and others.

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the people you have placed in my life. Help me recognize those who point me toward you, and give me the wisdom to invest in relationships that draw me closer to you. Give me the courage to serve others in love, to walk in community, and to trust you with each step of my journey. Remind me that I am never alone and that your purpose for me is woven through every relationship and every season. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Galatians 5:13
For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 

This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content at CedarCreek.