Practical Advice on Handling Conflict with Brothers and Sisters in Christ

When dealing with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, don't handle conflict like the world does with badmouthing, teasing, cursing, threats, and revenge.  What we think God might approve of us doing when dealing with an issue with someone, most likely isn't in His plan.  Consider the following scripture taken from Isaiah 55:8 in the NIV, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.

When we think of how Jesus dealt with conflict, he turned the other cheek, he forgave others, he was humble when he spoke to others, and he offered assistance even to those who didn't think much of him or the gospel he preached.  Since we are not perfect like Christ, it would make sense to go to him/Holy Ghost and ask him for guidance when handling troubling issues.  Be sure to have a witness when necessary when rebuking any brother or sister.

One must have a mindset prepared to deal with conflict, here are tips here:  Philippians 2:1-11.  Then pray, re-read text, apply the scriptures to your situation without focusing on what the person should and shouldn't do. 

Permit God to convict you on your wrongs without defending or justifying your ways.  Talk with trusted friends about the scriptures that you have read and your feelings.  Consider this, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." (Proverbs 15:22, NIV)  Pray with your counselors.  Afterward, act on the word (James 1:22).  For further spiritual insight see, God's Guidance for Christians in Conflict by Dr. Mark D. Roberts (Patheos.com).

Nicholl McGuire
 

When Facing a Foe...Stand Up for What is Right

From bullies to an argumentative partner, when facing these people, who refuse to do what is right ie.) 10 Commandments for starters, you will not always deal with the confrontation in a way that will appear mature, logical, and calm; therefore don't beat yourself up about it! 

Your face will turn red, your ears will feel hot, your heart will race, your voice will elevate, and you might hit a wall or throw something.  But when the anger passes, did you make your point?  Will things change?  Will you do some things differently?

There may be another misunderstanding and another until one day someone is going to wave the white flag and say, "I'm done...I can't fight anymore...I want to do right...I am sick of the war..."  Whatever brings a person to the point where he or she walks away or dedicates his or her self to change, at least you know you didn't compromise righteous beliefs and didn't allow someone to abuse or misuse you.

Whatever you do, keep your faith, pray and don't do anything that will cause the person harm or put you in jail.

Nicholl McGuire, listen to audio at http://www.youtube.com/nmenterprise7