THE LOST ART OF RELATIONSHIP
Trust can be restored. Relationships can be reconciled when we embrace vulnerability.
2. Treat others as we want to be treated (Matt. 7:12).
When we are considerate of others and their failings, we
understand that we, too, are one decision or action away from
breaking trust with someone. How would we want to be treated
if we failed someone? We would want them to show us mercy,
and we would want them to withhold judgment. The Scriptures
tell us:
> “We who are strong must be considerate of those who
> are sensitive about things like this. We must not just
> please ourselves. We should help others do what is
> right and build them up in the Lord.” (Rom. 15:1–2)
> “…because judgment without mercy will be shown to
> anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs
> over judgment.” (James 2:13)
> “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your
> brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your
> own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me
> take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there
> is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take
> the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see
> clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
> (Matt. 7:3–5)
We can be merciful and lead others to become more trustworthy, and we can work on our own trustworthiness. We can have more grace toward others when they fail us, and we can show mercy because we have been shown mercy. This will help repair broken trust.
Trust Requires Risk
Without trust, we cannot maintain deep relationships with others. It is a thread through all we do. In an article in Psychology Today, Peg Streep says the following:
Trust is the foundation of all human connections, from chance encounters to friendships and intimate relationships. It governs all the interactions we have with each other. No one would drive a car or walk down a sidewalk, or board a train or an