1. Let GO of the past.
We all make mistakes. Don't drive yourself to the point where you have so much baggage it literally takes a toll on you. Remember, you suck too. We are all fallen and letting go of the past is key to making it through.
2. Be Hypersensitive to what is going on in their life.
You might think you know everything, but you don't. There is so much internal struggle to be spoken for in each person. Respect that.
3. Don't be in competition about anything.
I so often find myself trying to over exaggerate how awful my life is to out do my roommate. Stop it. It's painful and it gets you nowhere. Be transparent about the real struggles you have but in a humble way. On the other hand, don't use your success to undermine them either.
4. Do the things that feed their soul.
What is their love language? You should know this. If you roommate needs physical touch to be affirmed and you never hug them, you are cheating them of the love they need. If they feel complete by you doing the dishes, then suck it up and do it. It is not always about you and your needs.
5. Don't point out the speck in their eye if you have a log in yours.
The wonderful advice of Jesus still stands true. Don't be judgy and nit-picky about everything. Learn to appreciate your differences.
6. Make time for each other.
Want to know the most detrimental thing to a relationship? Avoiding each other. It makes it easier to ignore things that are piling up in your hearts if you avoid each other. Go to dinner once a week, or have an early morning coffee. Whatever you do, don't hide behind the phrase "I'm super busy this week." Nothing breaks a roommate's heart more. Everyone has to eat a meal at least once a week.
7. Pray for each other.
This one slips away from us. But your roommate needs someone who is fighting with her/him. Be the behind the scenes prayer warrior.
8. Encourage them.
Whether you like it or not, what you say, do, watch, etc. effects your roommate just as much as it does you. So whether it's actually encouraging them with words, or choosing not to watch a movie with sex because she/he struggles with sexual sin, be an encourager of the good.
9.Bring their sin to light.
There are boundaries some shouldn't cross, but you see your roommate at their most vulnerable states. Be willing to correct them in a loving way. If your the one being called out, feel grateful that you have people that care enough.
10. Don't take them for granted.
These people are so precious. They love you like family. They do everything they can for you. Please, don't wake up one day, 1 month down the road, two years down the road, or 20 years regretting the way things ended between you guys.
The end of the semester is near and times are hard. The second semester is where it really counts. You will start to really see people's flaws and the "googlely" eyes will be over. Pushing through these things will only bring you guys closer. Cherish each other and love one another as CHRIST loved you.
