TAKING THE HIGH ROAD IN RELATIONSHIPS

And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job, when he had prayed for his friends. And the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. (Job 42:10 ESV)

After enduring nearly 40 chapters of criticism and condemnation from Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, Job has the opportunity to get even.  God announces His displeasure with them, apparently giving Job a wonderful chance to say, "I told you so."  Instead, Job prays for his foolish friends.

Like all great leaders, Job refused to take vengenance or hold grudges.  Instead, he took the high road.  He forgave his friends, interceded for them, and sent them on their way. 

Take time right now and remind yourself of the differences between the low road and the high road:

Low Road

1. Revenge and retaliation when wronged
2. Plays the same game as others
3. Guided by emotions; is up and down
4. Reactive: lives no better than anyone else

High Road

1. Unconditional love and forgiveness
2. Refuses to play games; lives by principles
3. Guided by character and values
4. Proactive: lives above merely human standards

I pray that we would take the High Road in all our relationships and determine each day to see Jesus in our situations. I pray that we would walk in God's forgiveness and power and allow the Holy Spirit  to guide us in all relationships with restoration and healing.