It's all a matter of perspective

Three Steps to Dealing with Problems in Relationships

It doesn't matter how spiritual you think you are. If you are human, there is always someone that will sooner or later rub you the wrong way. And, if you are a Christian and identify with Jesus, some might even hate you. This is all part of our process toward the fulfilling of the most important commandment God gave us: to love Him AND those around us!

 

The Bible says offenses will come, and they will come from the people we deal with day-to-day. Whether it's a supervisor or co-worker, classmate or relative, until we shift our focus on loving them like God loves us, we will never benefit from His love working in us, giving Satan an unnecessary advantage.

 

Three steps to dealing with strife or other problems in relationships:

• Evaluate the source - It is always one of four sources: It could be your fault, the other person's fault, or both could be at fault. The fourth source occurs less often and is not the result of strife--God may want you to end a relationship that is hindering your future.

• Accept personal responsibility - While it's easier to point fingers at someone else, you aren't always the victim! Always begin looking at yourself first and avoid justifying your reactions based on other people's actions.

• Choose to forgive . . . and let go! - No matter what the situation might be, you always have a choice in how you respond. You have 100% authority over yourself to forgive (even when others haven't apologized) and "die daily" to your flesh.

 

If we compared all the hurtful things people have done to us to what Jesus suffered for our sake, our suffering becomes insignificant. It's all a matter of perspective! Today, make the decision to shift your thinking the second you stop reading this email, and choose to walk in the love you've been called to walk in!

 

-  AWMI.net