Mike Jared, January 9-10

From Conflict to Peace

Conflict is inevitable. Because of our differences and our imperfections, we are never far from it. Sometimes it is a simple disagreement that can be easily resolved. Other times it is painful, ongoing actions and words that destroy relationships. Usually it is somewhere in between.

In the middle of a passage on how to treat those who mistreat us, the Apostle Paul says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) Conflict is ultimately resolved and relationships restored when both persons are willing to deal with the issues. But how do we live out “as far as it depends on you?”

That question would take a whole Peacemaker Seminar to answer, but there are three basic steps that can help us deal with conflict in a Christ-like way.

1. Glorify God: Ask, “How can I respond to this conflict in a way that would honor God?”

2. Get the log out of your own eye: Ask, “What is my part in the conflict? What have I done or not done that has caused this conflict or added to it?”

3. Go to the other person: Prepare your heart and words to humbly go to the other person, confront the wrong done, confess your part in it and seek solutions.

To learn more about how to deal with conflict in a biblical, Christ-like way, attend the Peacemaking 101 Seminar that runs four Tuesday evenings, 7:00 - 9:15 pm, beginning January 19. You can register in the lobby or by contacting Annie Dudley at 503-581-2129, x208 or adudley@salemalliance.org