listen to both sides before doing this!

One of the continual problems that I see when addressing disagreements or arguments in relationships is the mistake of only listening to one side of the story. I’m amazed at how people can make themselves seem like they are innocent and that the other party is guilty. If you only hear one side of the story, you might even be convinced that they are telling you the truth, and you might even get angry or disappointed at the other person. Yet, if you get to hear the other side of the story, you’ll realize that the first person to state their case might have actually  exaggerated, or even lied to appear innocent and righteous. Proverbs 18:17 (TLB) says: “Any story sounds true until someone tells the other side and sets the record straight.” The CEV states it this way: “You may think you have won your case in court, until your opponent speaks.” So next time you have to deal with an issue that involves two people, refuse to accept only one side of the story before rendering a decision. Don’t allow yourself to get caught up in someone’s biased perceptions or opinions. Wait until you hear both sides of the story, and you’ll be able to render a more realistic decision because you’ll have all of the facts on hand. Selah!