When I first met her, she had nothing but dreams - and I had the means to help her make those dreams a reality. She spoke of building a future together, her eyes lighting up like fireworks every time she talked about what "we" could accomplish. Back then, I believed those dreams were ours. I didn't realize they were only hers.
I poured myself into her life completely. When she cried, I was her comfort. When she doubted herself, I was her biggest cheerleader. We started from the bottom, counting every penny, sharing late-night meals of cheap takeout, and planning for brighter days. It felt like us against the world.
She would say, "You're my everything. I couldn't imagine life without you." At first, I melted at those words. Her love was intoxicating - constant calls, surprise gifts, overwhelming affection. I didn't know there was a word for it then: love bombing.
Looking back, I see the red flags I ignored. But when you're in love, red flags can look like rose petals. I thought we were weaving a strong bond - two cords entwined with God as the third strand, making us unbreakable.
The truth? She was weaving a net, and I was the one caught in it.
Reflection Questions
Have you ever ignored red flags in a relationship because you were in love?
What does a healthy, God-centered relationship look like to you?
How can you ensure that your "cord" includes God at the center and not just words or appearances?
Scripture for the Journey
"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help."
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT)