Sometimes coming to agreement is difficult. We want what we want. My understanding of needs isn’t always the same as others. Yet, we are called to be in agreement. How do we make that happen?
It reminds me of one of the Seven Habits by Stephen Covey, think win-win. The concept is not to compromise but to keep working until both parties win. Recently, we started bed shopping. I know that doesn’t sound like a big deal, but for us it was.
My hubby is very tall. I am not. He rarely sleeps in the bed due to his back. The chair and couch are his locations of choice. As we began mattress shopping, it became clear he needed an adjustable bed to accommodate his back. The best position for him is not the same as my best position. How would we find one bed that would work for both of us?
It took time and lots of research to come up with an option that would fit our budget, but we did. Two separately adjustable bases. One on each side of the bed. He can even have a different mattress if needed.
I know this was a simple example, but it makes the point keep working to be in agreement. There are many places for disagreement in life. I often want my way and think I”m right. It’s easy to dig in my heels and demand my way. The problem is it doesn’t accomplish anything.
10 I appeal to you, brothers and sisters,[a] in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. (1 Corinthians 1:10 NIV).
We are encouraged to be united in mind and thought. No, we can’t agree about everything all the time. However, I do believe there are more situations where we can work to agreement. We have to be willing to listen first and listen closely for what we have in common. I need to look for more places for agreement. The bed was just the beginning. Next, it’s where the dirty clothes go.
Do you naturally look for agreement? Do you like to dig your heels in? Are you willing to try harder to bring people together? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.