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Getting along with people is one of the most important skills we all need to develop—and one of the most difficult. You know, regardless of what kind of work you do every day, you undoubtedly have to get along with some people in order to do it, right? You have to motivate them or placate them or correct them or teach them or guide them or help them—or all of the above. People! They’re always there!
Well, it’s no surprise that we can learn how to deal with all kinds of people in all kinds of situations by studying the Master, Jesus Christ. His people skills were the best ever. So, I want to point out some lessons we can learn from Jesus in how to get along with people.
Consider what Jesus taught us to do when a relationship has been broken or wounded. In Matthew 5: 23-24 we read:
If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
Here’s what we learn from Jesus: If there’s anything wrong with a relationship, try to fix it quickly. Don’t let it fester. In fact, Jesus said to interrupt your worship if you have to. If you’re in church and you’re convicted about a hurting relationship, leave church even before the sermon’s over and go try to fix that broken relationship. Don’t let anything get in your way and don’t waste any time.
Also, Jesus teaches that we should make the first move even if we’re not the one at fault. He said if your brother has something against you, you go to your brother. Now, we’d probably say, “If he’s got something against me, that’s his problem, not mine.” But the Master said you should make that first effort to be reconciled and do so quickly.
Even though it seems backward to us, remember that doing it Jesus’ way works.