Relationships are one of the hardest things in life to navigate. You will rise and fall to the level of your relationships. There is no rhyme or reason for how people react or respond to others. Absalom and Solomon were two sons of King David, as we read in the Old Testament. Two sons from the same father. Absalom had no honor where his father was concerned. In contrast, Solomon had honor for David. Jesus ministered over a period of three years, with twelve disciples. One disciple was known as “John the Beloved”, the other was Judas the betrayer. Both men heard the same messages. They lived with him for three and a half years. It is how they responded that revealed what they gained from Him. Not every relationship should have equal rank or equal value. Who adds value to your life? Who is irreplaceable? When you do not know who you truly are, then the opinion of anyone will suffice. If you are totally confused by everything, it may be possible that you are listening to everybody with the same degree of intent. Do not give every voice equal voice! It is important to recognize the limitations of certain relationships. There are things everyone may know about you because they are obvious to the naked eye. For instance, your hair color, gender, size, and skin color They are outwardly discernable observations. Internal attributes such as your personal fears, desires, financial status, may not be clear to just anybody. For example, a coach may see your athletic potential or how you may naturally hear melodies. You may have the heart, mind, and skill of a musician. It may be very apparent that you are a natural born leader. Do not surround yourself with people who cannot see the gifts that God has placed inside of you. Relationships have the potential to either raise you up or pull you down. Are there people in your inner circle who only evaluate you based on your past mistakes or who you used to be? Perhaps you might consider limiting their access to you. Choose those individuals who are willing to get to know the real you. They will look beneath the surface and see that you are worth getting to know!