A beautiful relationship is like a happy place. It’s a place that brings you joy, happiness, and laughter. A place where you can express yourself and be vulnerable. A place where you feel seen, welcomed, and valued. However, beauty doesn’t always mean that everything is all rainbows and sunsets. There will be occasions that seem to threaten that happy place or feeling: stress from the daily hustle and bustle, differences in opinions, or even a lack of communication can create rifts in a relationship and cause couples to offend one another. Mistakes can be made, and hurtful words can be said. However, it’s the approach to handling these matters that is really important.
Differences should build, not break. Couples should always make allowance for mistakes, knowing fully well that no relationship is free from challenges.
These three little things can mend a relationship and restore happiness:
First, ‘I was wrong’: Acknowledging fault is key; couples should be able to admit when they are at fault. Playing the blame game is dangerous and can destroy a beautiful relationship. As Christians nurturing a godly relationship, we should be able to admit when we are wrong. Pride or ego may want to get in the way of this, but as the Bible says in Galatians 6:3, ‘If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.’ Couples should not exalt themselves above each other. There should be mutual respect where it’s easy to say ‘I was wrong.’
Acknowledgment of fault leads to saying the words, ‘Please, forgive me.’ This is the second little thing that can heal a relationship. Ephesians 4:32 says, ‘Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.’ We will sometimes be in situations where we will need to be forgiven. In return, the other party should be willing to forgive the offending person. Love doesn’t keep a record of offenses. Forgiveness is answering anger with love.
The third, and sometimes most overlooked, are these three beautiful, strong, little words, ‘I love you.’ These words mean and say a lot. It’s saying that despite our differences or what we might be going through at this particular time, I love you regardless. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 says, ‘Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others; it is not self-seeking; it is not easily angered; and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’
In conclusion, cultivating a beautiful and fulfilling relationship requires humility, forgiveness, and an unwavering commitment to love. By acknowledging our faults, seeking forgiveness, and expressing love even in the face of challenges, couples can strengthen their bond and create a lasting partnership built on mutual respect and understanding. As Christians, we are called to emulate the love and grace shown to us by Christ, extending that same compassion and forgiveness to our partners. Let us remember the words of 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and strive to embody the qualities of patience, kindness, and perseverance in our relationships. In doing so, we can create a haven of love, joy, and laughter that withstands the tests of time and adversity.