I have been reminded lately how tricky relationships with our Christian brothers and sisters can be. We want to be close to each other, but inevitably something happens and the relationships sour, or worse, they precipitate a crisis of faith in one or more of the parties involved. Somehow, we expect each other always to act in Christ-like ways, never making a mistake, never having a weak moment, never giving in to temptation to do evil.



I have been a party to such difficulties, sometimes the one at fault, sometimes the one wronged. Always in such times I find myself struggling with my expectations.


“She should know better than to treat me this way!”


“He should understand that I am only human!”


“If they were real Christians, this never would have happened!”


I’ve often wondered what level of love Jesus had to have in order to psychologically deal with all of the injustices at the hands of His own people He endured. What kind of love does it take to be able to restrain oneself when you are the God of the universe constrained in a human body?


So for us, how do we practically handle such situations with grace and Godliness? Is it just a matter of revamping our expectations so that we always expect each other to act sinfully and brace ourselves for the inevitable? Do we write off everyone, except ourselves, of course, as a hypocrite and wait patiently for God to bring justice and punishment? Is it okay for us to set and enforce boundaries in our relationships, especially within our church family? If so, how do we do this in a loving way? What does a healthy relationship between Christians look like?


Cannot wait for your insights!