“She’s a must to avoid

A complete impossibility

She’s a must to avoid

Better take it from me”—Herman’s Hermits

Have you ever tried to get along with someone, but it just didn’t seem possible to work things out? I suppose that happens to everyone. Even Paul and Barnabas decided they needed to go their separate ways because they couldn’t solve a dispute that arose between them (Acts 15:36-41).

I try to live my life in such a way that I don’t have to avoid anyone. I like to be able to walk up to anyone at any time and shake their hand and offer a sincere greeting. I’ll admit that there have been times when such encounters have been awkward because of a rift in a relationship.

Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” The Bible teaches that we should do our best to get along with people. But it also acknowledges the fact that some people will refuse to get along with you.

Let’s try to be patient with people. After all, God was pretty patient with us, right?

Oh, and if you see me cross to the other side of the street as I’m headed in your direction, I’m probably not trying to avoid you.