Yesterday we talked about losing friends and making enemies. Every committed believer, at moments in his life, will attract criticism and even betrayal. This is part of the suffering of the Christian life.

However, there are many times when frayed relationships are a result of our own stubbornness and pride. It’s easy for a Christian to hide beyond the label of "persecution" to justify his own sinful attitude. Christians can be intentional martyrs.

Here is a big clue that your relationship issues are self-inflicted wounds. If you find yourself saying, "I’m the only one who works hard at the office." Or "Nobody understands me." Or "I’m the only Christian who is really sold-out for Christ."

You’re not the only one. You’re a small part of what God is doing in the body of Christ around the world. Be thankful for others.

If you’re constantly finding fault with others, if nobody’s commitment seems as strong as yours, perhaps you need to do some serious soul searching. Are you cultivating and demonstrating Christlike love, forbearance, and compassion toward those in your world?