Let's face it... there are people out there in our seemingly dystopian society that are difficult to deal with. Think about it...work...school...the playground, there's people that just want to make life difficult. However, as children of Christ, made in His image, it is our responsibility to overcome the temptation to verbally "fight back" and use the verse above as our sword in overcoming the enemy.
Here are a few practical tips:
1. Show honor.
- Show respect to those that wrong you. Yeah, it may be hard, but afterwards you'll thank yourself for not saying something you'll regret and have to apologize for.
2. Don't believe everything you hear.
-Unfortunately, jealousy is like a disease determined to take over a friendship and gossip follows jealousy. Instead of latching on to these vices, be a positive model for your friends and speak only of the virtues of others.
3. Be reminded of the previous relationship.
- Think about your friendship and where it used to be. Why did it change? What can YOU do to fix it?
According to Holly Furtick:
"Remember, friendships need to be cultivated, but if a particular friendship is like caring for an orchid… try as you might, the petals are falling off, it may be time to let it go. On the other hand, if you have an friendship that is like an oak tree, one that is steady and has weathered many storms, you should fight for that one". - See more at: http://hollyfurtick.com.
4. Express that you have no ill will.
- Show that person that you care about them. Ask God to forgive all evil thoughts towards others.
5. Always take the humble road.
-Don't let your pride get in the way of the relationship you have with people. Being prideful can be the downfall of the friendship that you could save.
6. Commit it to God.
-Who better to talk to about all of life's problems?
Based on a sermon from my home church, Tabernacle Baptist.
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