The Bible is a rich storehouse of spiritual and practical advice, and examples of strong relationships are one of the recurrent themes. In fact, Martin Luther commented that the entire Christian life consists of relating to people around us. 1

So what can we learn from the Bible about how to succeed with people?

Look for the good.

Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.—Philippians 4:8

Treat others with kindness, the way you would want to be treated.

In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.—Matthew 7:12 NIV

We should not live to please ourselves. Each of us should live to please his neighbor.—Romans 15:1–2 NLV 

Be gentle and kind to everyone.—Titus 3:2 CEV

Be adaptable.

Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.—Romans 14:19 NIV

I am not anyone’s slave. But I have become a slave to everyone, so that I can win as many people as possible. When I am with the Jews, I live like a Jew to win Jews. And when I am with people who are not ruled by the Law, I forget about the Law to win them. I do everything I can to win everyone I possibly can.—1 Corinthians 9:19–22 CEV

Always forgive.

Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?”

“No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!”—Matthew 18:21–22 NLT

Be supportive.

Share each other’s burdens—Galatians 6:2 NLT

I am glad and rejoice with all of you.—Philippians 2:17 NIV

We have not stopped praying for you since the first day we heard about you. In fact, we always pray that God will show you everything he wants you to do and that you may have all the wisdom and understanding that his Spirit gives.—Colossians 1:9 CEV

  1. “The Freedom of a Christian,” Luther’s Works, ed. Harold J. Grimm and Helmut T. Lehmann (Philadelphia: Muhlenberg Press, 1957), p. 365 ↑