“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men...” (I Thessalonians 5:15). Every relationship has its ups and downs. Conflicts are an inevitable part of life. Even without trying we can easily hurt and offend those that we love the most. Most conflicts – especially in the home and in the church – are not intentional. They are the result of misunderstandings and poor communication skills. But how do you resolve a conflict where both parties feel that they have been wronged and hurt by the other? This is the kind of stalemate situation that often results in divorce and church splits. All it takes is one person with the strength of character to decide not to retaliate but to respond with the gentleness and kindness of Christ. If others have hurt you, you do not need to seek revenge and hurt them. You have a choice. Consider the following: • Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins (Proverbs 10:12). • A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1). • A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife (Proverbs 15:18). • But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you (Luke 6:27-28). • Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). • Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing (1 Peter 3:9). Refuse to be drawn into the petty squabbling that characterizes so many relationships. Take the higher ground and do what is right. Do not respond with your emotions, but with your will choose to respond Biblically and graciously. Morris Hull Home Life Ministries Please consider sharing this posting on Facebook if you have found it to be helpful. Like the Home Life Ministries Facebook page to receive these daily updates in your Facebook News Feed. Check out our websites at hlm.org, CharacterTech and CharacterJournal.
Posted on: Mon, 20 Oct 2014 09:59:01 +0000
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