If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide.  But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend,  with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers.  Psalm 55:12‭-‬14 NIV

The pain of intended harm from someone close.

This type of pain is too close to escape.  It’s too close avoid.  How do you deal with a family member or work relation that has lied about you.  Maybe they have spoken hateful words to your face and a painful wedge is there daily to  live with.

Below are my thoughts and steps to live with this pain.

• Look at your own life first for a reason.  See if you can see if there is something they are reacting to.  Even if they are wrong it is a starting point of conversation.

David was the original cause of this pain.  There is a reason for their anger.  It is an unintended consequence of David’s actions.  I will publish this tomorrow in part 2.

• Pray for them and yourself.  We fight not against flesh and blood but against principalities and power of darkness. Ephesians 6:12-17

• Show compassion.  Love your enemy which may be in your family.  Don’t give more ammunition for their rage.  Check your pride and be humble.

• Seek wise advise not gossip or social media advise.

• Learn from David’s Psalms.  Cry out to God in your quiet times and also praise Him for His goodness.  It is His spirit that will be required to work in their hearts.  Ask God to rescue you.

• Guard your heart.  For out of it pours your life.

Whatever happens in your situation,  follow these steps and keep your heart right with God and others.  Remember the kindness and repentance is also their choice to make.  Keep allowing God to challenge and grow you.  Don’t let this situation take so much of your thought that other important relationships are neglected.  Keep a strong lightnside and remember God see all and is in control.