conflict

“How we treat others with whom we are in disagreement on any issue is a reflection of the state of our relationship with Jesus.”
Mary Albert Darling

Powerful statement isn’t it? Do you think it’s true? I do. But…do I live it out? Unfortunately, not always. It is easy to reflect Jesus when we are getting along. But, as soon as there is conflict, we power up, we defend, we accuse (if not to someone’s face, at least in our head), we don’t give them the benefit of the doubt, we look for other ammunition to support what we want to believe about that person, or even find others who will agree with us.

What would it look like to reflect Jesus in the midst of a conflict? Maybe it means being quiet because to speak would be to sin. Maybe it means we speak the truth in love. Maybe it means we try to see the conflict from the other person’s point of view because there is ALWAYS the possibility that they just might have a valid point.

In the middle of a conflict right now? Yes? You might want to ask Jesus how He would want you to respond. Not in the middle of a conflict? Well, don’t get too comfortable because you will be. That is one of the realities of being in relationship with each other. Before you react, take a breath and see what the Spirit might be saying to you.

Truly – how we handle conflict should be one of the things that sets us apart. Do people see that difference in me? Would people see that difference in you? Just asking……
Grace and peace,
Deb

Photo by Rune T http://www.flickr.com/photos/minebilder/2054011204/