How Does God Shape Our Relationships?
What role does God play in our relationships? Whether it’s friendships, dating, or deeper commitments, young adults are actively searching for guidance. In this episode of the Real Church Podcast, our guest Kara Steubing, who works closely with high school and middle school students, shares insights into the most pressing questions young people have about relationships. From friendships to romantic connections, we explore what faith says about how we relate to others and what boundaries, if any, God places on relationships.
As relationships continue to be a top priority for young adults, this conversation explores the spiritual and practical aspects of building meaningful, faith-centered connections. Whether you’re a teen navigating high school friendships or a young adult seeking guidance in dating, this episode provides a faith-based perspective on one of life’s most important topics.
Summary of the Episode
Our discussion covered key questions young adults and students are asking:
- Does God care about relationships? Many young people wonder if faith has a role in their friendships and romantic choices.
- What does the Bible say? While scripture provides guidance, it doesn’t always offer black-and-white rules for relationships.
- Boundaries and values: How to navigate healthy friendships and romantic connections with wisdom and faith.
- Personal experiences: Our guest shares insights from working with high schoolers who prioritize relationships as a major topic of discussion.
- Navigating uncertainty: How to approach relationships when clear-cut answers aren’t available and when personal faith must guide decision-making.
- Faith and culture: How modern culture shapes young people’s views on relationships and how faith can provide grounding in an ever-changing social landscape.
Notable Quotes
“It was interesting—we recently asked students what topics they wanted to explore, and relationships were a top priority.” – Kara Steubing
“Unfortunately, when it comes to people and relationships, there aren’t always black-and-white answers.” – Kara Steubing
“I think students are largely looking for guidance on what’s okay and what’s not. But relationships are complex, and faith is about learning to navigate them with wisdom.” – Kara Steubing
Pastor Insights: Reflection on Faith and Relationship (Featured When Available)
In the Reel Expressions episode on God and Relationships, we explore how young people are navigating friendships and romance through the lens of faith. To add even more perspective, we asked our pastoral team to share their insights:
Pastor Gina shares:
“One of the most important things we can teach our youth is that God’s love is the foundation for all relationships. When we understand our worth through Christ, we’re better able to love and value others in healthy, grace-filled ways.”
Pastor Barbara reflects:
“Relationships are rarely black and white. The Bible may not give a checklist, but it gives us principles—like patience, kindness, honesty, and forgiveness—that shape how we love and care for others.”
These insights remind us that relationships—whether romantic or platonic—are spiritual ground. They invite us to bring God into our everyday connections and trust in His guidance as we learn, grow, and love.
What We Didn’t Cover in the Episode
Relationships are at the core of human experience, but what does a faith-centered relationship really look like? While the episode touched on the importance of guidance from scripture, here are a few additional reflections:
- Faith as the Foundation: A strong relationship starts with a personal faith that influences how we interact with others. Seeking wisdom from God allows us to build deeper, more meaningful connections.
- Setting Healthy Boundaries: Whether in friendships or romantic relationships, defining boundaries can help align relationships with spiritual values and personal well-being.
- The Role of Prayer: Prayer isn’t just for personal struggles—it’s also a powerful tool for strengthening relationships. Inviting God into our friendships and romantic lives can bring clarity and peace.
- Walking in Community: Surrounding yourself with a faith-based community provides support and accountability when navigating relationships.
Join the conversation
Want to dive deeper into this conversation? Listen to the full episode now and join the discussion! Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with us on social media.