Be alert for Danger Signs:

Condemners; Controllers; Consumers

If you can’t render an opinion without an attack, a lecture, or the silent treatment [not a break from contention but an extended refusal to discuss issues]

When every idea or opinion you offer is shot down or dismissed

When one insists on “staying in your lane” [not theirs] (Proverbs 26:17;

1 Thessalonians 4:11)

Be Wise, discerning, and Firm when confronting or exiting a relationship. (Colossians 4:6)

Rebuilding bridges takes time and energy!

“Be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19; Proverbs 10:19)

Before you meet/speak, already have a plan and some guidelines written down for you to process and speak.

Ask the Lord for favor/order. Resolve to stay resolved if necessary.

Be gentle but firm. (James 5:19)

“Practical Thoughts”

“I, we, they don’t deserve to be spoken to like that”

“One of our fundamental principles here is ­­­­­­­­­­­­___________________________________________.

I’m not certain that you have truly connected with that.”

“We may not be wired to connect long term.”

One way to separate from inferior working relationships is to make the requirements so plain and the demands beyond what a non-committed person would agree to! (Matthew 16:24)

“I think it would be in both of our best interests to go in a different direction. I/we wish you nothing but the best.”