Reciprocity Matters: Learning to Steward What God Has Given Me
There was a time in my life when I gave freely without much thought about whether that giving was being reciprocated. I showed up for people. I listened. I encouraged. I supported. I poured into friendships and relationships because that was simply who I was. But over time, I began to notice a pattern. I was often the one reaching out. I was often the one checking in. I was often the one giving, encouraging, helping, and investing. While there is nothing wrong with being generous, I eventually realized that constantly pouring without being replenished comes at a cost. Reciprocity matters. Healthy relationships are not about keeping score. They are not transactional. They are built on mutual care, respect, and investment. Both people contribute. Both people make an effort. Both people value the relationship enough to nurture it. When only one person is invested, the relationship becomes unbalanced. For many years, I continued giving even when I received very little in return. Part...
