Interpersonal Relations

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:2-3)

The practice of overlooking the faults and offenses of others is a form of sacrificial love. This can be extremely challenging for many of us, especially in a world that emphasizes the importance of asserting one’s rights and standing against perceived abuse. In America, we are unlikely to face stoning or crucifixion, yet our friends and family can still disrespect, slander, or offend us—whether intentionally or not. Even if we refrain from lashing out in response, do we truly forgive and forget, or do we silently harbor resentment? Do we seek the Holy Spirit for help, casting our cares on Him and breaking through the strongholds of the enemy? 

There is a bond of peace in the unity of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit consistently unites us in Him, creating a community that is free from strife, competition, and conflict. As Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Could it be that God desires to build family relationships founded on love and forgiveness in even the smallest issues? This foundation may serve as a defense when tragedy or hardship strikes. A united and healthy family can act as a bulwark against the enemy and shine as a light dispelling darkness. How often do we engage in religious acts that might seem important, yet pale in comparison to the spiritual significance of nurturing our families and maintaining our vital, unblemished relationship with Father God?

Recently, while meditating on a walk and giving thanks to God, my personal Father in Heaven, I reflected on the faith this relationship sometimes requires. We may feel insignificant and weak, but His Word calls us into a new existence in Yeshua. As John 16:26-27 states, “In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God.” We do not serve God by ignoring His Word or punishing ourselves in penance; instead, we believe we are made completely worthy through Yeshua. True humility involves acknowledging our fallen nature while surrendering to the Lord, immersing ourselves in His Spirit, so we can proclaim, “I can do all things in Christ who gives me strength.”