Tripwires
It was just an innocent remark.
They were having a disagreement. He thought one way; she another. To move forward into their day they will need to figure this little problem out. Who will do what and when? Who will get their way this time and why? This is the stuff of close relationships. There is nothing wrong with this and, in fact, if handled well, it can actually strengthen bonds.
But then something happens. It’s a small comment, a little remark, a recollection about some unrelated old issue thought resolved long ago.
Now it’s up and out once more wreaking havoc like a Cat 5 hurricane threatening to destroy everything and everyone in its path. And what is the solution? To let sleeping dogs lie. To resolve to live and let live by focusing, as much as possible, in the present situation. Let go of the past as much as possible, and if this isn’t possible, seek counsel over fighting. Life is too short to waste time attempting to correct the past.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
I love spell checkers. We now have a new book in the New Testament.