Suspension bridges, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, are marvels of science. Great tension is created in the bridge’s cables to keep it suspended in the air. It’s like a game of tug-of-war. The cables can snap if the tension is too great. Balancing tension is essential.

Like the cables on these bridges, we are always managing tensions in life. We deal with the tension of finances, news, politics, healthy habits, household tasks, and work expectations. Learning how to handle the tension in a way that honors Christ is our goal as believers.

We deal with the tension of finances, news, politics, healthy habits, household tasks, and work expectations. Learning how to handle the tension in a way that honors Christ is our goal as believers.

But one of the most difficult tensions we must manage is relational tension, including the nationwide racial tension we’re all experiencing. We can’t escape it—and some of it ends up being hard to handle. The tension in some relationships may have been stirring like a steady current for a long time. Others suddenly came out of nowhere like a heavy gust of wind. So, let’s take some cues from Abram to see how he navigated the waters of his relationships.