As written and presented by Mary Whelchel

PROGRAM D-6026

Relationships are the sandpaper of life. Isn't it often true that the relationship struggles of your life are used by God to refine you, teach you, and help you grow to maturity? Let's look at five biblical principles we need to know when we are experiencing relationship difficulties on our jobs.

The Extra-Mile Principle

We are called to have an extra-mile attitude in our relationships with others. Matthew 5:38 - 41 is pretty clear about this:

You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.

What does it mean to have an extra-mile attitude, to turn the other cheek, to give your cloak as well as your shirt? Don't you think Jesus was trying to teach us:
- to endure unfair treatment at times, without griping or complaining?
- to refrain from saying some of the things we would like to say to that difficult co-worker?
- to do some work we don't have to do or want to do?
- to put in extra time and effort to help a difficult person?

Surely that is all a part of this extra mile principle. And it would lead us to endure at times, and to do more than perhaps even our employer would require or expect of us. But there is also a balance we must find. I believe that Jesus gave us boundaries with this extra mile principle, and he definitely is not teaching us to endure any kind of treatment or to put up with unacceptable behavior or habits forever and never say anything negative to anyone?

Do you go the extra mile with those difficult relationships? Or perhaps you go too many extra miles. We certainly should find the right balance in our effort to go the extra mile, but don't become infected with the prevalent worldly attitude of 'watching out for number one' and not doing anything you don't have to do. The extra mile principle is one we need to apply to difficult relationships and when we are willing to go that extra mile it can often open a door for a miracle.

In my Bible Study Improving Your Relationships you will learn how to apply biblical principles to your relationships between co-workers, family, friends and mates. Call the ministry at 1-800-292-1218 or click here to order your copy.

Click here to be a part of our financial support team and make a donation on our secure website.