It is inevitable that as we do life together, there are going to be times that we hurt one another.
Even if it is unintentional, none of us are perfect and relationships are difficult.
So we will have times that we end up hurting those we care about.
AND . . . there are times that those we care about end up hurting us.
Sometimes the pain will come because of words or lack thereof.
There will also be times that the actions of our friends are not affirming and supporting.
However, it is up to US how we process these “slights” so that we can continue in relationship with one another.
Proverbs 17:9 says,
9 Overlook an offense and bond a friendship;
fasten on to a slight and—good-bye, friend!
How many times do we choose to hold onto things that have been done TO us? Times that we feel slighted and hurt? Or . . . do we choose to let it go?
If we will let it go, we have a much larger chance at building strong relationships. If we can’t let it go, then perhaps we summons our courage and have conversation about it with those that we’ve been offended by.
Honest, open dialogue makes all the difference and ultimately is a key tool in our ability to let it go.
What can you let go of today?
Colossians 3:13 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
13 Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord[a] has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.