Fight for the Relationship

Conflict always presents two things:

The issue.

And the relationship.

Immaturity fights for the issue.

Maturity fights for the relationship.

In Romans 5:8, we’re reminded that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. God didn’t wait for you to improve. He didn’t walk away when you were difficult.

He stayed.

That’s faithfulness.

Faithfulness sometimes means giving up the right to be right.

Even when you are right.

Even when you can prove it.

Even when others agree with you.

Being right is not the highest Christian virtue.

Love is. Reconciliation is. Peace is.

In Matthew 5, Jesus says if you’re at the altar and remember someone has something against you, go reconcile first.

God is more interested in restored relationships than religious performance.

Faithfulness says: This issue will not override the covenant.

That’s maturity. That’s Gospel living.