We face relationship issues all the time. Be it with a spouse, child, boss, coworker, friend, etc., it’s an ongoing problem that arises! Such moments can sometimes feel like a weight instead of a stretching of ourselves. Yes! A stretch. Who wants to be stretched when we’re already feeling bound by problems with folk? I know I don’t. I’d rather the problem pass and I get the chance to move on. But, we’re likely missing the importance.
Any abuse … GET OUT RIGHT NOW!! That’s not bondage. That’s a dire need to leave the situation. I know oftentimes that some believe they will die at the hands of their abuser, but if you consider the magnitude and this is true … wouldn’t it be better to take the risk to leave (saving yourself) and give yourself a fighting chance than to stay? I didn’t say it would be easy but there are tons a ways to get away! The first step is to decide! Next step is to come up with a plan! Notice I didn’t say just leave. NO! You first come up with a plan (ask a trusted loved one who is on board) then you act!
Okay, let’s get to it …
I believe this concept can apply to those who are not Christian. The only reason is because there is understanding we all need! There is a standard in life that calls for respect! We all need it and must give it every chance we can get! Again, wisdom is the PRINCIPLE thing! It will guide you in the steps taken:
*Wives, be {The wife is to submit voluntarily to her husband (not to men in general); not as inferior to him, nor in violation of her Christian ethics, but honoring her husband's responsibilities and authority as head of the household.} subject to your husbands [out of respect for their position as protector, and their accountability to God] as is proper and {i.e. not in conflict with Scripture.} fitting in the Lord.
*Husbands, love your wives [with an affectionate, sympathetic, selfless love that always seeks the best for them] and do not be embittered or resentful toward them [because of the responsibilities of marriage].
*Children, obey your parents [as God's representatives] in all things, for this [attitude or respect and obedience] is well-pleasing {as in the Lord's presence} to the Lord [and will bring you God's promised blessings].
*Fathers {this is established as both parents} do not provoke or irritate or exasperate your children [with demands that are trivial or unreasonable or humiliating or abusive; nor by favoritism or indifference; treat them tenderly with loving-kindness] so they will not lose heart and become discouraged or unmotivated [with their spirits broken].
*Whatever you do [whatever your task may be] work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort] as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,
*Knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [greatest] reward.
It is the Lord Christ whom you [actually] serve.
*For he who does wrong will be punished for his wrongdoing, and [with God] there is no partiality [no treatment based on a person's position in life].
Colossians 3:18-21; 23-25 (AMP - Amplified version)
There’s only one way to end this …
Blessed [with spiritual security] is the man who believes and trusts in and relies on the Lord And whose hope and confident expectation is the Lord.
Jeremiah 17:7 (AMP)
Reflections such as these will always be a self examination! We won’t always like what we learn, however, it will be for the betterment of ourselves and for the relationships we hold dear!
