Sin is sin. The implication is that all sin is equal, and so we are all equal sinners. Because of that we conclude that we have to give grace and forgiveness regardless of how others have sinned against us because God has done that for us. It all sounds true, but perhaps it isn’t the whole truth? Let’s explore the concept of sin and forgiveness together.

What is truth? It’s the question that Pilate didn’t get answered, but the life Jesus lived and the way he taught were demonstrations of what “truth” looks like. What does truth look like in your marriage? And what would it mean for the truth to be accepted?

Philippians 4:8 says “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”This passage is often used as a “feel good” passage about positive thinking as those speaking of it encourage us to think happy thoughts and loving thoughts and gentle thoughts. But have you ever considered what each of those words really mean? Let’s look at them together.

Sometimes people need to hear that their spouse is not the enemy in order to reorient them to cooperation instead of conflict - particularly when what you truly have are two with the capacity for relational health who simply don’t have the skills to achieve peace but can learn them. But sometimes that’s not what you have. Sometimes you have a spouse who can’t (or won’t) work together with you no matter how hard people-helpers get them to try. What do you do then?