I have long believed in the value and blessing of relationships. Yet I am very aware of the challenges and complexities of relationships, and I completely realize they can be highly rewarding and fulfilling. 

Every person is different. They have various gifts, many preferences, and are sometimes completely unaware of their own weaknesses. People communicate in different ways, and sometimes their methods can make things even more complicated. 

This is why we need to remember the tremendous insight I learned from a former seminary professor of mine, who is now in heaven. Dr. Oscar Thompson used to say: “The gospel of Jesus Christ travels on the tracks of relationships.” This is also true about love. Love travels on the tracks of a relationship.