Music to God’s Ears
Music to God’s Ears
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement allow you to live in harmony with one another. (Rom. 15:5)
A Sweet Sound
God loves harmony in interpersonal relationships. When Christians live in harmony, it is music to the ears of the Lord. When husbands and wives are loving each other, looking out for each other, and serving each other, it is like a symphony for the angels. If you are musically inclined, you know that harmony is not achieved without effort. You have to work at it and practice until you get it right. Interpersonal harmony is no different. In today’s passage we are not simply commanded to live in harmony; we are encouraged by the fact that God “gives endurance and encouragement” to our efforts.
The Real Deal
Interpersonal harmony is not the fake patching over of disagreement. It is not living a shallow life to avoid conflict. It is not avoiding all discord. On the contrary it is doing the hard work required to live in peace and understanding. The honest, respectful working out of disagreements is akin to practicing music together until it starts to sound really good. And when it does sound really good, relationships are often strengthened. So don’t avoid healthy conflict. Work out those interpersonal issues with grace and patience. The end result will be a beautiful song that delights you, your loved ones, and the God who is empowering you to make a beautiful sound.
Bottom Line
Working out interpersonal difficulties is like learning to sing harmony. The fact that it takes time and energy to get it right doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it.