Yes – But * Yes – And

When we are in conversations with others, our answers to their comments are usually on our minds, and frequently on our tongues, before their comments are finished being stated. Agape is required to be able to listen to what other people are saying. Patience is required.

Even when we do listen, we are prone to answer with, “Yes, but…” Suppose we had the patience and love to be able to answer, “Yes, and…” Suppose we could find a place of dialog that allowed us to encourage others frequently rather than arguing with them frequently. Straightening them out is not always as valuable as strengthening our relationships with them.

Now we who are strong have an obligation to bear the weaknesses of those without strength, and not to please ourselves. Each one of us must please his neighbor for his good, in order to build him up. For even the Messiah did not please Himself. On the contrary, as it is written, The insults of those who insult You have fallen on Me. For whatever was written before was written for our instruction, so that through our endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we may have hope. Now may the God of endurance and encouragement grant you agreement with one another, according to Christ Jesus, so that you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ with a united mind and voice. (Romans 15:1-6 Holman Christian Standard Bible ®©)