When someone continually tests our patience or sins against us, Jesus calls us to seek their good. That may mean speaking a hard truth, praying for repentance, or setting a wise boundary when trust has been broken. In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains how the grace we have received in Christ shapes our response.

Remember the Mercy of Christ

Romans 5:6–11 brings us back to the cross. Christ died for the ungodly, and God reconciled us to himself through the death of his Son. Remembering that mercy helps us approach difficult relationships with humility. In Matthew 5:43–48, Jesus calls his disciples to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them.

Pursue Peace with Truth and Wisdom

Paul urges Christians to live peaceably with others as far as it depends on them and to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:14–21). He also calls believers to bear with one another and forgive as the Lord has forgiven them (Colossians 3:12–14). Sometimes seeking another person’s good calls for addressing sin. Forgiveness can go hand in hand with wise boundaries. Trust may need to be rebuilt, and reconciliation requires willingness on both sides.

Loving Difficult People in Practice

1. Remember the mercy God has shown you in Christ.
2. Seek the other person’s genuine good.
3. Speak the truth in love when sin needs to be addressed.
4. Set wise boundaries where they are needed.
5. Refuse bitterness and revenge, and entrust justice to God.
6. Pray for the other person and ask God to give you wisdom.

Think of one difficult relationship. What would faithfulness to Christ look like in that relationship today? Begin by remembering the grace you have received, then take the next step in obedience to him.

Scripture Referenced

Matthew 5:43–48, Romans 12:14–21, Colossians 3:12–14, Romans 5:6–11, 1 Corinthians 13:6, and 1 John 4:19.

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