What is the Target in Relationship Struggles?

The last few weeks, I have been reflecting on the Apostle Paul’s instructions to Titus. Paul visited Titus in Crete after a brief visit. He sent Titus instructions to help him establish and strengthen a community of disciples on the island. Crete, like many other places where churches started and sought to take root, was a target of teachers presenting an array of “lies and heresies.” Paul wrote strong, even harsh words about some who were causing trouble in the community. “There are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers ... They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach. One of the Cretans, a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” (Titus 1:10-12 ESV) Paul coached Titus and commanded him about how to manage oneself during conflict and strife. He commanded Titus to pass on the coaching to the community. Paul understood that self-control is difficult in relationship struggles. He also understood how difficult it is to coach toward godly living when relationship storms are brewing. The verse I’ve been contemplating is Titus 3:2. What Paul commands is, as we say, “Easier said than done!” “Speak evil of no one, avoid quarreling, be gentle, and show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Titus 3:2 ESV) WOW! Really! Can that be done? No one? Avoid quarreling? Gentle? Show perfect courtesy toward ALL people? Give me a break! Get real! It may be way out there --- BUT IT IS OUR TARGET!