Romans 12:19-21 - 19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. 20 Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” 21 Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.
Scripture calls some believers to be a source of encouragement to others. But, most of us know at least one person who brings us more conflict than comfort. Discord can take many forms. Two personalities may not go well together. Different beliefs can lead to arguments. Words and actions might be misunderstood. But through Jesus Christ, almost any difference can be overcome.
Those who’ve received Him as Savior have the ability to live a life of peace. Conflict results from living in “the flesh”. That’s man’s natural desire for self-satisfaction by any means.
Believers given the Holy Spirit can act in the Spirit rather than in the flesh. When we give the Lord control, His goodness and grace flow through our life and create harmony.
To have peace with one another, divine grace must first be expressed through prayer. We make it a habit of lifting up the other person to the Father. Next, we honestly discuss with this person the issue in the relationship. It could involve a past wound, incorrect assumption, or unhealthy thought pattern.
There’s only one way to uncover the source of conflict. That way is to be willing to share our concerns and listen to the other point of view. Sometimes it’s necessary to get help from a godly counselor to work through this step.
Finally, once the root issue is identified, both parties must cooperate in restoring harmony. They agree to confront new issues as needed. God desires His Children live in peace, but He knows we cannot achieve harmony ourselves. For that reason, He gave us the Holy Spirit.
2 comments:
Can be tough to do for sure. Reminds me of Matt 18:21-22 21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" 22Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
cas
A timely passage for myself.
LT
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