---------- [image: Purpose Driven Connection - Daily Devotional] May
12, 2009
Being Wise in Your
Relationships<http://links.purposedriven.com/u.d?H4Gt227vCFSr6kIdE=93>
by Rick Warren
In our Devotionals series, Pastor Rick Warren discusses the Bible passages
that inspire him the most. Today's Devotional is based on this passage: "But
the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace-loving, gentle
at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good
deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are
peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness"
(James 3:17-18 NLT).
Every person you know is unique. Each one is a complex blend of
background, temperament, and giftedness. Yet, these differences are often
the root of relational conflict. Uniqueness poses all kinds of communication
problems—so often we simply don't understand each other! We may use the same
words but with very different meaning.
We're wise when we recognize and value the differences in people. Our
uniqueness requires that we use wisdom in order to relate to others in
customized ways, rather than relating to everyone with the same, rigid
style, as if everyone will think and respond the same way.
The Bible tells us the characteristics of genuine wisdom: "The wisdom that
comes from heaven is first of all pure and full of quiet gentleness. Then it
is peace-loving and courteous. It allows discussion and is willing to yield
to others; it is full of mercy and good deeds. It is wholehearted and
straightforward and sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds
of peace and reap a harvest of goodness" (James 3:17-18 LB).
>From these verses we learn six ways to be wise when we relate to others. If
I am biblically wise...
1. *I will not compromise my integrity* (wisdom is pure). I'll be honest
with you. I'll keep my promises and commitments to you.
2. *I will not antagonize your anger* (wisdom is peace-loving). I'll work at
maintaining harmony. I won't push your hot buttons.
3. *I will not minimize your feelings* (wisdom is courteous). I may not feel
as you do, but I won't ignore or ridicule how you feel.
4. *I will not criticize your suggestions* (wisdom allows discussion). I can
disagree with you without being disagreeable.
5. *I will not emphasize your mistakes* (wisdom is full of mercy). Instead
of rubbing it in, I'll rub it out.
6. *I will not disguise my motivations* (wisdom is wholehearted and
sincere). I'll be authentic with you. I won't con or manipulate you.
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'Unless you change what you do, you will always have what you've got.'
- Jim Rohn
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