HEALING RELATIONSHIPS

So put away all falsehood and “tell your neighbor the truth” because we belong to each other. And “don’t sin by letting anger gain control over you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a mighty foothold to the Devil… Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
 
Ephesians 4:25-27, 31-32
 
Mending a broken bone is relatively straightforward. If it is a minor break (a hairline fracture), protected and left alone, it may heal itself. If there is a major break the care of a doctor is required. After the bone is properly set, placed in a cast and given time, the break will heal.
 
It is not always so straightforward with a broken relationship. Even for the most minor offenses, hardly ever will leaving the situation alone truly repair the relationship. Communication, talking through the situation without “bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words and slander”, is required.
 
For those severely broken relationships, the care of the Divine Physician is required. For the break to be properly set, His Word is the pattern. His Spirit is the cast which can hold your relationship together, while you allow time for your injury to heal. Placing your faith in the Divine Physician, there is no break which He cannot heal, in His time.