Love or harsh words?

Yesterday Jörg wrote something about quarrels and disputes. This happens in all types of relationships. Friendships, families, marriages and partnerships. Under these circumstances it is sometimes more difficult to express criticism, than it is with mere acquaintances.

When we love a partner, what happens when we criticise them when the partnership isn't working the way it should? One can simply insist that one is right and show the other person that they are wrong.

I am reminded about a secular quote by Max Frisch, who once said something to the effect that one should offer the truth to another like a mantel which he can slip into and not hit him with it like a wet rag around the ears.

In today's Corinthians scripture we see the Biblical view on how to treat one another with love. Paul doesn't see love much different to Max Frisch. He just goes a little further.

Can you live out these attributes of love, as Paul calls it? Can you love and honour a partner in this way? It is certainly not always easy to treat each other in this manner. However, this is the way God stipulates for our dealings with one another. The attempt would certainly be worthwhile.

How did your last quarrel end? How did you treat each other?

I wish you a blessed day in all your relationships.

Rainer Gigerich