TRYING

The décor section at a local store always inspires me, 

as did this sign about relationships

We use the word “trying” in two very different ways:

“That person’s attitudes and actions are very trying for me”—as very difficult and unpleasant.

“I am trying to mend that relationship”—as in I am attempting, to the best of my ability, to better the situation.

Sometimes, we just can’t please everybody all of the time. Yet, trying to reach out to the trying (difficult) is what God calls us to do until He shows us we’ve done our best, and He will continue to work on a trying situation.

Still, the advice in this sign is noble and worth trying.

I’m reminded of advice in several parts of the Bible.

First, that because of the sinful nature, some people are simply trying (difficult) to be around: The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9)

Next, God offers second chances when hard hearts are softened: If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened, but God has surely heard my voice in prayer. (Psalm 66:18)

God understands the difficulty of reconciliation when a hard heart is the other’s problem:

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath. (Romans 12:18)

Glance in a spiritual mirror to evaluate your own heart condition: If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:8-9)

A humble heart is a tried-and-true approach in difficult relationships. We live in an imperfect world. God knows that. If it were perfect, we wouldn’t need a Savior or the grace of God to get through the brambles of brokenness. Or signs like this one to remind us of a better way to live.