So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9
We’ve all heard stories about nightmare in-laws. How do you handle a relative prone to toxic and cruel behavior?
Marie never saw it coming. Her family had always handled conflict respectfully. So, when she discovered that her new mother-in-law and sister-in-law gossiped, shouted, and played manipulative games, she was totally overwhelmed.
Whenever she prayed about this stressful situation, God reminded her of two simple truths from the Bible. The first was from Proverbs 4:23. It says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Marie knew she needed to watch out for rage or bitterness seeping into her own heart. She refused to retaliate and kept on praying for them.
The second scripture God brought to her mind was Galatians 6:9. It says, “Let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” There were many days when Marie wanted to give up and never speak to them again. There is a time and place for removing toxic people from our lives. But God kept prompting Marie to keep making an effort, showing love while maintaining firm boundaries. She didn’t see these relatives every week, but when she did, Marie refused to be petty about slights and jabs. She showed kindness and respect, even when it wasn’t shown to her.
How could she do it? What was Marie’s source of strength for being so gracious? Jesus! “Jesus loved me this way even when I hated Him. So, He helps me love people His way,” she explained. God will work powerfully in our hearts and through our lives when we yield to His guidance in relationships.
What difficult relationship do you need God’s guidance for?
