Strife creates a toxic environment for any relationship; be it marital, work, church, family etc.
How can you live at peace with others?
Colossians 3:13-14
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
1. Make a decision to bear with people.
The original meaning of that word is to suffer. To have successful relationships, you must be prepared to suffer and accommodate the weaknesses of others: wickedness, ingratitude, betrayal etc. This will help you maintain long term relationships.
2. You must decide to forgive.
Forgiveness is not an emotion; it’s a decision. Your actions must reflect your decision. That’s why it’s a command. You can decide to forgive someone and still feel some emotional pain or discomfort. Over time, your emotions will finally line up with your actions.
3. Finally, decide to love.
This, first of all means you must take the initiative to repair ruptured relationships. Make the first move; that’s why it says “put on.”
Secondly, your love for God can constrain you to meet the first two requirements. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” A commitment to God’s word makes the first two possible. Love “binds” or constrains us.
Keep on loving!
Kakra Baiden
