Do the hard work of getting along

Do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.

James 3:18 MSG

Real wisdom, God's wisdom begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor. (James 3: 17-18 MSG)

Is that a tall order for families, or what?

How do I teach my children to be peace-loving, considerate, and submissive, when it is in everyone's nature to fight for their "rights"?

"What is the source of wars and quarrels among you?" (James 4:1)

My kids start the day like this: best buds. A tangle of arms and legs and hugs.

Five minutes later there is an all out war over whose turn it is on the computer, how to correctly play a computer game, or who ate the last portion of a favorite cereal.

One of my children added a screen saver to her iPod that said "Did you ask first?" in order to remind certain family members of common courtesy.

How do I love purely, and correct in a way that is impartial and sincere. Is there anything gentle and reasonable about family conflict?

Some days I just want to hide in the closet and eat chocolate bars. Sigh.

"All my longings lie open before you , O Lord; my sighing is not hidden from you." (James 4:3)

Father, walk with us today. Holy Spirit, teach us moment by moment how to live and love your way, "overflowing with mercy and blessings". Our way can be full of pride and frustration. Help us to be "brave" and do the hard work of getting along.

Fate be changed. Look inside. Mend the bond torn by pride.

 

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