Conflict is Hard

Conflict seems to jump out at us every day. Whether it is something we read in the news or media, or something we listen on the radio or TV; conflict is ever present in our daily life. Most of the time, when we think of conflict we think of a fight, or a heated argument. However, it can be as simple as trying to pick where to eat with a group of people. Someone wants pizza, and the other wants sushi. When we as believers encounter conflict, what does scripture show us?

Self-Check

• 1 Peter 5:5
  • Are we dressing ourselves in humility, or are we rolling up our sleeves for a fight?
• James 4: 1 -3
  • What does our motives tell us about the conflict?

What should we do?

• 2 Corinthians 13: 11
  • Are we in the conflict to win and come out on top, or are we trying to work to restoration?
• Proverbs 12: 18
  • Does our words we use in conflict cut or heal?
    • In some cases hard truth spoken lovingly hurts at first, but brings about healing in the end.
• Matthew 7: 5
  • Are we walking in the truth that we are sharing with others, or do we need to step into that truth first ourselves?

How should we handle conflict with other believers?

• Matthew 18: 15 - 17
  • One on one is the best way to bring restoration. Only after that does not work do we bring in others to speak truth to someone in a loving manner. We are seeking to restore not to destroy.

When we think of conflict, it is easy to focus on the other person, view point, or issue. However, scripture shows us that we should start with ourselves first. When we focus on ourselves first, it is uncomfortable, but also allows us to not just rush blindly into the conflict. So, as we examine ourselves and step into the conflict with other believers, we should always be thinking of how to restore, not who/what is wrong. We should Love one another just as we love ourselves.