"FACING CONFLICT"
Often on life's trail, our desires conflict with those of someone else. Too often neither person gives in willingly ~ ending with unhappy results. Jesus guides us in handling such situations. In Gethsemane, He
inquired whether a way other than Calvary might be possible. But He did not insist on His way! In keeping with His Father's will, He chose the way of the cross, suffering for sinners ~ us!
"Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." Philippeans 2:4
Of course, we must insist on God's way. When His Word clearly speaks, we must follow, no matter how much conflict results. But when it is merely a matter of our way instead of another, because of Jesus, we
can willingly yield for the other to pass.
Variety fills God's creation. He has gifted His children with unique personal idenities and perspectives. Yet sometimes differences develop into barriers.
"Now the God of patience and consolation grant you yo be like-minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus." Romans 15:5
Sometimes people are unwilling to celebrate differences and instead let them grow into hard feelings or hurt feelings, into resentment or quarrels, causing conflict.
"And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which labored with me in the gospel, with clement also, and with other my fellow laborers, whose names are in the book of life." Philippeans 4:3
Apparently, conflict arose between these two women in Philippi; while Paul tried to reconcile them one to another. Sadly enough, it happens with Christians today too. The heavenly Father speaks to us
through Paul as He did th the Philippeans of that day. There is no room for conflict! We must be a part of the solution in helping one another work out differences that rob us of closeness and unity.
We see and hear of disoriented families, where members' roles have become confused. Family relationships become strained and often break up because of conflicting issues. Satan surely enjoys seeing this display
of conflict!
"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10
God is also concerned about preserving the family ~ His family of believers. He sacrificed His only Son so that, by His sacrifice and glorious resurrection, we all could be part of His family ~ united
together in love.
"With all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:2,3
God's plan for avoiding conflict is quite clear: Be completely humble and gentle; be pleasant, "forbearing one another in love."
Application: Through prayer, with God's help, we can swallow our pride when it comes to conflicting issues. We should make peace rather than making a point. Only with the indwelling of the Spirit can we show forbearance with others, as God does with us, and make allowances for the mistakes of those who are "heirs" with us of eternal life. God's family is united in Christ and is called to function together in love.
Today's Devotion: There is no room for conflict: "So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another." Romans 12:5
May God Bless You All as you walk today in peace and love for one another, as Jesus did when he walked here on earth.
