* These three verses precede the famous verses we all know (vs 4-8).

* Satan tries to tear relationships apart because he knows that’s how he’ll win.

* You can win in relationships if you wage a war.

* You’re meant to fight shoulder to shoulder as allies not face to face as enemies.

* When you do you’ll discover the beauty in battle - fighting together draws you together.

* Paul is encouraging these ladies to stop fighting against each other but rather alongside one another.

* How can you win in relationship when the strain has hit?

* vs 4 - “Rejoice in the Lord!”

* The Hebrew word for joy is “simha,” which means the “manifestation of divine purpose fulfilled. (Skip Moen)

* This call to joy reminds us that any part of creation fulfilling its designed purpose is an expression of joy.

* This is why being in nature is so relaxing - everything in nature is fulfilling its purpose.

* The opposite is true in an arcade.

* Proverbs 27:17 reveals that we are meant to sharpen each other.

* So when the strain comes you have to know this is God’s way of sharpening you, and this should bring joy!

* When you do this you’ll embrace each other’s differences as assets to your growth rather than threats to your development.