Galatians 5:19-26
19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
It’s not acceptable for someone walking in the light, living the abundant life (same thing) etc. Anyway, there is this pro-bullying movement out there, saying people are too sensitive, but I think you can’t really apply what they’re saying to this situation. I mean, a thick skin can only take so much. Ultimately, if you’re around someone that doesn’t like you (and that’s the root cause), you need to leave the relationship and you should also leave a relationship where you don’t like someone.
So, what is the cause of the nitpicking? Well, it’s a symptom of a relationship going downhill or perhaps the person never liked you to begin with. That’s the reason for it. And while enduring this stuff is acceptable for basic military training (to prepare for war), it’s not a good idea for a relationship with a boss, a marriage partner, a boyfriend/girlfriend situation, co-worker situation etc.
Note: It’s often possible to repair bad relationships, of course, but as dating sites suggest, abuse is a sign to get out while it’s being repaired or perhaps not being repaired.
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