What is conflict, and how does it show up in your relationships? Conflict generally occurs when a relationship is broken, or when people are more focused on “self” than on Jesus. The root of conflict is usually more about getting your feelings hurt or feeling as though you’re not getting what you deserve. This can manifest as anger, injustice, malice, and other behaviors that Christians are advised to avoid. But when you understand the root of conflict and use the right communication tools, you can learn to resolve relationship issues in a way that glorifies God.

"Conflict Resolution" by Derwin L. Gray

Pray
Jesus, because I love You and I follow You, I understand that it is my duty to bring peace into my relationships. Help me to stop when I am acting selfishly, and help me to look to You so I can show grace and love instead.

Reflect
Are my conflicts destructive or constructive?

Respond
Practice the Gospel by talking, listening, being peaceful, caring about others, and letting go of your need to win.

When you let conflict lead to reconciliation, you reflect holiness. When you decide to show grace to one another—letting go of your need to win—you make great strides toward resolving your conflicts and living in the harmony God wants for you. But what happens when you are afraid of conflict? Do you ignore it? Avoid it? Deal with it passively? In our next post, we’ll take a look at why these aren’t effective methods of communication or conflict resolution.