Keep the Peace

A couple, married for 15 years, began having more frequent disagreements in their relationship. They wanted to make their marriage work and agreed on an idea the wife suggested. For one month, they planned to drop a slip of paper in a “Fault” box. The boxes would provide a place to let the other know about daily irritations. The wife was diligent in her efforts and approach: “leaving the jelly top off the jar,” “wet towels on the shower floor,” “dirty socks not put in the hamper,” “toilet paper placed on the holder the wrong way”—on and on it went until the end of the month.

After dinner, at the end of the month, the couple exchanged boxes. The husband reflected on what he had done wrong. Then the wife opened her box and began reading. They were all the same; the message on each slip read, “I love you!”

It’s a fact: relationships can be messy! Whether it’s with a spouse, child, parent, family member, friend, coach, teammate, work colleague, or neighbor, we all face relational tensions and challenges in our lives. No age, gender, religion, church, occupation, or country is immune to this. Often, it’s a love-hate relationship. However, as Christians, we have a responsibility to be good stewards and managers of the relationships in our lives.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 12:18:
“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live in peace with everyone.”

Listen closely: don’t skim over that first sentence. “If possible, as far as it depends on you.” Christ-dependent, Christ-exalting humility thinks about what honors others. It rejoices with those who rejoice. It weeps with those who weep. It hurts with those who hurt. It doesn’t repay evil for evil. It blesses those who persecute. It loves peace! However, we can’t guarantee that there will always be peace. That’s okay. You’re not held accountable for the other person’s response—whether they forgive or not—but you are held accountable for obeying God and His word.

Always remember: great doors of opportunity often swing on the hinges of obedience.

“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live in peace with everyone.”