Does a Fractured Relationship Exist in Your Life?

Fractured or broken relationships cannot be completely avoided because differences in personality and temperament spark rivalries and conflicts. Diverging political and religious beliefs cause tempers to flare and argument to blaze out of control.

Friendships and families can be torn apart over issues that have no lasting value. Yet in a moment of intense anger and hurt feelings, nothing seems more important than saying what you think and feel, even if it means leaving a relationship in shambles and permanently fractured.

Repairing fractured relationships is possible, provided each person is receptive to realizing important sacrifices have to be made, including being open to admitting personal faults. 

Differences need not rupture family ties or a friendship if respect and trust are valued above all else. Remember, God gave up Jesus as a sacrifice so a fractured relationship between himself and you could be repaired.                            

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Don’t do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble toward one another, always considering others better than yourself. And look out for another’s interests, not just for your own.

~Philippians 2:3-4 Good News Bible

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Selfish Ambition vs. Sacrificial Giving

SELFISHNESS can be an automatic, protective mindset and behavior when danger is apparent. Most often, however, it’s motivated by greed designed to satisfy deeper needs. Jacob wanted his brother’s birthright.  His attitude was, “I want all that's mine and what belongs to you.” He wanted his brother’s position and prestige.

What drives a person to develop a selfish disposition? Reckless ambition characterized Jacob’s life even though he had everything he needed. So instead of being greedy for more wealth, he wanted the acknowledgement that ownership of Esau’s birthright would give him. He would not live his life in obscurity by being in second place.

Jacob did not love his brother. Selfish ambition blindsided moral responsibility. He was thinking only of himself. Selfishness driven by greed grabs whatever is wanted. Jesus said, “Give and it shall be given to you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together will others give to you.” This is a basic life principle to live by.