There is what could be described as the “extra mile” principle. This is derived from Jesus’ teaching where He instructs us to go two miles for anyone who compels us to go one. It is also in that context that He asked the disciples to turn the other cheek if they had been struck on the one side. The principle implies that we should be ready to go beyond the demand of duty. Following this principle might be all that is required for harmonious relationships among people.

Maturity is when one is willing to lose a peculiar advantage so that all may gain.

Abram employed this principle in dealing with his nephew, Lot. When he noticed that a crisis was brewing between his men and Lot’s men, he acted proactively, nipped it in the bud, to preserve their relationship.  He proposed an amicable separation so that each camp could continue to expand without any encumbrances. Lot was allowed to make the first pick. By their culture, the right of first choice belonged to Abram, but he forfeited that. To preserve the bond of unity among couples or in the larger household of faith, there are times we may have to forgo our rights and cherished positions for the greater good of all. Maturity is when one is willing to lose a peculiar advantage so that all may gain.