By Live in harmony with one another
Romans 12:16
That is the idealistic dream of this world—getting along with others. We love those who are easy to get along with, and we admire those who seem to get along with everyone they meet. Sadly it seems that the slightest unintentional gesture can undo a year’s worth of peace-making.
Contrary to how we live, the secret of getting along with others is not some mystery. It has been clearly revealed to us by God.
Live in harmony with one another.
Romans 12:16
Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.
Never be wise in your own sight.
The secret to getting along with others is simply this: Don’t think so much of yourself.
Haughty is a strong word, and not very flattering. So don’t be so full of yourself. If you want to get along with others, you will need to make some changes to your interaction with others. Just assume that others are better than you, and you will be more thankful that they condescend to interact with you, and subsequently you will be more respectful, engaging, and thoughtful in your interaction with them. Do not be haughty.
The quickest way to fix your rough edges when it comes to getting along with others is to associate with the lowly. Introduce yourself to the more reserved people in the room. Invite the poorer folk to lunch. Visit the elderly. Help the sick. Look for the person whom most others would not normally associate with, and go, get along with them. It is no secret that the best relationships are the unpretentious ones. So don’t pretend to be so great, and try get along with those who less pretentious themselves.
In short, never be wise in your own sight. Being so convinced of your own ‘rightness’ is the singular most destructive tool for your daily relationships. When your spouse says something that you immediately attach a meaning to, don’t be wise in your own sight, but rather draw the intended meaning out of your spouse with humble words. When a friend shares an opinion that you don’t hold to, ask and learn, don’t blurt out a counter attack. Recognise when you are speaking out of ignorance or opinion instead of knowledge and conviction, and get along with those in the WhatsApp or Facebook group who type without considering the ill-informed nature of their comments. Never is a long time, so never be wise in your own sight. As the saying goes, “it is better to be thought a fool, then to open your mouth and remove all doubt”.
If you want to get along with others, assume that you are not that great, that the lowliest are the ones you should associate yourself with, and that you are not always that right. By following this secret, you will meet more agreeable people, and you will be easier to get along with.