What Does Compatibility Assume?

Instinctively, we human beings basically know if the potential for compatibility exists for a relationship. A young man created a business with a friend and assumed that compatibility in ambitions and objectives existed. Soon disputes over management of finances caused their friendship to collapse.

However a relationship is defined, success depends on having mutual values and agreeing on significant issues. Some relationships are so fragile that compatibility has to be carefully nurtured by elevating it above all areas of incompatibility.

Compatibility in marriage assumes that self-centeredness and self-reliance have given way to interdependence and mutuality, based on love and commitment to each other. Genesis 2:24 describes this as becoming one flesh in body, mind, and spirit. For compatibility to flourish and thrive, it must be nurtured and cherished.

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Therefore encourage and comfort one another and build up one another, just as you are doing.

~1 Thessalonians 5:11 Amplified Bible

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Listening for Unity

What would you say is the primary purpose for communications? If you say to give or receive information or to clarify issues, you would be basically right. Communication is designed to help people understand what is needed to accomplish a task. It is important to listen thoroughly so there can be unity of thought and purpose.

Failing to listen by jumping to conclusions sabotages purpose and unity. Since each person may differ in willingness to hear information, it’s possible for there to be variations in what is understood, which then sets the stage for conflict. Prematurely coming to judgment with limited information causes disunity and turmoil. 

Listening to understand may mean delaying obvious conclusions. Active listening includes realizing the importance of words and feelings, for both give meaning and purpose to communication. Jesus scolded people for having perfectly good ears but still being unable to hear. So listen to identify feelings as well as the spoken word. 

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The one who gives an answer before he listens – this is foolishness and disgrace for him.

~ Proverbs 18:13 Holman Christian Standard Bible

 

And beyond all these things put on love, which is the prefect bond of unity.

~Colossians 3:14 New American Standard Bible

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Jealousy or Forgiveness? It's Your Choice - Part 2

Children are keen observers of the attitudes and behaviors their parents model for them. In the story of the prodigal son, imagine what the older brother was thinking and feeling when he observed his father give away property to his younger brother, who would sell it and leave home for an extended period of reckless living? He would later witness his father maintain a vigilant watch each day for the return of the younger son.

Picture the lavish reception this wayward son received from his father when he returned home in abject poverty. The older brother was not happy. He felt threatened, betrayed, and defensive. He believed he was not as special as his brother although he had worked hard, followed his father's rules, and remained obedient.

Is it fair for God to be as accepting of someone who has enjoyed a life of sin and reckless living as he is of someone who has always been faithful? Your answer could  be based on which of these two brothers you more clearly identify with. The good news is, God's love and mercy are greater than all your sins.

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