The farther the distance between two points, the more effort, time and materials building a bridge between those two points will be required.

It seems obvious, doesn’t it?

Consider the application in relationships.

In the early years of our marriage, Tim and I often “discussed” our differences. I had one viewpoint. He had another. The discussion ensued. It rarely started as an argument. In fact, we usually began fairly close in our stances. We shared more than differed in our viewpoints. However, we noticed the differences and often focused on them. We each stood our ground more firmly as we continued. As we focused more and more on the differences, we created an ever-widening chasm.

While we might have started mere inches away from each other, our focus on those inches magnify and multiplied them. The distance between us exponentially grew.

Had we chosen to build a bridge when there were mere inches between us, the building process would have required minimal time and effort. The wider the chasm, the more time, materials, and effort are required.

What chasms exist in your relationships right now?

Are you currently building a bridge or creating a wider chasm?

If you’re widening the chasm, consider your willingness to invest more time and effort into building a bridge. If you’re not willing to spend increasingly more time and effort, quit widening the chasm.

Tim and I were hiking recently and were on a path where we could walk side by side. We were holding hands as we approached a large rock in the middle of the path. He walked to one side, and I walked to the other – but we continued to hold hands. I told him I wanted to only walk as far away from him as was possible while holding hands. Of course, I was speaking metaphorically. I know we can’t always literally walk side-by-side and hand-in-hand.

Relationally-speaking, I don’t want to create or allow more distance than is necessary – in any of my relationships. I know there will be times of distance in relationships, which means I know there will be bridge-building. I’d rather spend most of my time and energy walking with the people in my life than separated from them and building bridges from across wide chasms.

I beg you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ that all of you agree with each other and not be split into groups. I beg that you be completely joined together by having the same kind of thinking and the same purpose. (1 Corinthians 1:10)