Difficult conversations.
Stressful situations.
Conflict.
How do we navigate these things as the people of God?
The way we handle these conflicts – our words, action, tone – must somehow bring glory to God.
VMC’s transitional pastor Doug Loveday says the key is charitable judgement.
This means taking responsibility for our own stuff – what can I apologize for first?
It means checking our own hearts – is there anger or frustration that needs to be dealt with?
And this means assuming the best of the other person’s character.
Reminding ourselves that there must a reason why this person is acting this way.
Asking for greater understanding.
Being humble and yet, courageous.
And finally – catch conflict early and dialogue early.
Often, the longer we wait the more difficult things are.
The grace of God is with us and, amazingly, we have the Spirit in us – eager and ready to comfort and discomfort, guide and strengthen.
May we live and abide in the Spirit – together as the body of Christ.
From VMC November E-Newsletter
Photo credits: Sina Katirachi (Unsplash)