Conflict seems inevitable in this life doesn’t it? Whether between parents and kids, siblings, pastors and deacons, co-workers or people arguing on social media, conflict is just a click or thoughtless response away.
With as many conflicts as we endure along the way one might come to think people really are not that concerned with it. One might think people are content to live with fractured relationships and just move on. That would not be the case.
A Willingness to Take Responsibility
A recent survey conducted found that 85 percent of Americans surveyed either strongly agree or agree that “they are prepared to resolve conflict between them and others.”
This is astounding! Clearly people do not want to live in conflict and want it resolved. 85 percent of people not only do not want conflict to continue between family members, friends, and co-workers, but they are willing to take responsibility to resolve it.
One of the strengths of small groups in the family of faith is the emphasis on oneness. The psalmist wrote, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers can live together!” (Psalm 133:1, HCSB). That harmony is commended by God and should encourage us to encourage others to reconciliation.
So, what can God’s people do to facilitate reconciliation between conflicted parties?
Facilitating Forgiveness and Reconciliation
We can learn, practice, and teach what the Scripture says about forgiveness. When we have practiced forgiveness we can be conduits of reconciliation for others. When we bear grudges our ability to lead others down the path of forgiveness is hindered.
