If They Would Only

Most people that I know want to live peaceful lives.  Yet there is something about conflict in relationships that causes constant inner turmoil.  When things are not right with those close to you, then we are always affected.   In the areas of conflicts and broken relationships, it is always nice when “the other person comes to their senses”, realizes their fault, asks for forgiveness and changes their way.  Of course we pray and trust that such a response will come about.  Yet we know that such an ideal situation does not always happen.
   Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”  Did you notice that the expectation to “live peaceably with all men” does not depend only upon the other person’s responses.  Instead the exhortation says, “as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”   This means that we have our responsibility for doing our part for having a healthy relationship.
   Don’t wait for the other person to change, “as much as is possible”, you should do all that is necessary.