Dealing With Conflict

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YOUR DAILY INSPIRATION

If you read the Bible, you will repeatedly learn of conflict. If you look at your life, you will probably see a huge similarity. Whether it is personal, work-related, in your relationships, with your family or just hovering in the outside world…Conflict is there. I personally would rather walk across a desert than confront an unpleasant situation. You will find me cowering in the corner, or at the very least, making every effort to avoid the situation. This is not very effective, and most certainly not productive. The energy I expend to run away could certainly be put to work in a much more positive way. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” – Matthew 5:9. This sounds so easy, so warm and fuzzy, yet why do we avoid it at every turn?

I had occasion recently to delve into the topic. Putting things in perspective is a huge help, as are the communication skills needed to move forward. Somehow, removing the fear from the situation makes it so much more manageable. Again in Matthew (18:15), “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained a brother”. In this day of social media, so many are having a hard time with the “between you and him alone” part, but it is key in your conflict resolution. Quietly, quickly confronting the problem, setting a realistic outcome, and carefully communicating to those involved can be so rewarding. Be ready for plan b….a response you didn’t expect. If you are, it helps make the waters remain calm. This unfortunately includes the possibility that the person you are dealing with does NOT want resolution (and believe me, they exist). At that point, we need to let God take over set the path into tomorrow. Sad, yes…but you will continue to move in a forward motion.

What causes conflict? Differences in opinion, background, selfishness, generational gaps, and many times, judgmental ideas. Be prepared to accept your share of the responsibility, identify and change. Sounds easy, doesn’t it? Not the case, but with God’s guidance you can improve the life you live and hopefully the lives of those who share your air.

Another, oh-so-familiar verse and a terrific reminder – John 8:32, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free”. I pray that you will enter days of freedom, peace, and resolution.

Claudia Little

Seasons may change but God’s grace remains the same. Be stronger in every season so that you will become fruitful. ~Malene Mendoza~

All through this day, O Lord, by the power of Thy quickening Spirit, let me touch the lives of others for good, whether through the word I speak, the prayer I speak or the life I live. Amen

Sisters in Christ