However, relationships do not run themselves, and God does not do all the work for us. Philippians 2:12-13 states that God wants you to “work out your own salvation (living out your faith in your life and relationships) with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you to will and do of His good pleasure.” We believe that that there is a balance between a reliance on God and a responsible effort in taking care of your relationships, including your relationship with God. Therefore, God desires that you grow to understand relationships and to develop the skills that build and sustain your relationships, so that you are equipped to fulfill His will. The most meaningful and challenging relationships of life are oftentimes within the most intimate relationships of dating and marriage. This is where reality tests out true spirituality. We believe that God wants us to develop the character and master the skills needed to run those relationships with wisdom, grace and love. The ability to successfully run your closest relationships becomes a proving ground for all your other relationships, including positions of church leadership (1 Timothy 3:2-5). Life is all about relationships… your relationship with God, your spouse, your family, your faith community, your co-workers, and with so many others. We believe that God values a relationship with you so much, that He sent His Son to secure your forgiveness by His death on the cross. We believe that God is love, and that He calls and empowers us to express His love in our attitudes and actions within the framework of our relationships.