How ready are we to resolve conflict?

Conflict seems inevitable in this life doesn’t it? Whether between parents and kids, siblings, pastors and deacons, co-workers or people arguing on social media, conflict is just a click or thoughtless response away.

With as many conflicts as we endure along the way one might come to think people really are not that concerned with it. One might think people are content to live with fractured relationships and just move on. That would not be the case.

A Willingness to Take Responsibility

A recent survey conducted by LifeWay Research and Bible Studies for Life found that 85 percent of Americans surveyed either strongly agree or agree that “they are prepared to resolve conflict between them and others.”

This is astounding! Clearly people do not want to live in conflict and want it resolved. Eighty-five percent of people not only do not want conflict to continue between family members, friends, and co-workers, but they are willing to take responsibility to resolve it.

One of the strengths of small groups in the family of faith is the emphasis on oneness. The psalmist wrote, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers can live together!” (Psalm 133:1, HCSB). That harmony is commended by God and should encourage us to encourage others to reconciliation.

So, what can God’s people do to facilitate reconciliation between conflicted parties?

Facilitating Forgiveness and Reconciliation

We can learn, practice, and teach what the Scripture says about forgiveness. When we have practiced forgiveness we can be conduits of reconciliation for others. When we bear grudges our ability to lead others down the path of forgiveness is hindered.

We can encourage and prepare those who are willing to resolve the conflict to take the next step. Often good intentions do not get to the point of action. It is very easy to say it, but another thing entirely to follow through. Because unresolved conflict is so damaging, we as believers should be catalysts in helping others. Does it need to be a phone call? What about an appointment at a coffee shop? Is a third-party needed?

Living as Peacemakers

Jesus said, “The peacemakers are blessed, for they will be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). Paul “urged” the Ephesian believers to be “diligently keeping the unity of the Spirit with the peace that binds us.” When we facilitate reconciliation we bear witness to the call to be peacemakers. This, in turn, bears witness to the truth of the Gospel.

I am thankful Bible Studies for Life has been designed in such a way that resolving conflict is a natural by-product of the study. Because of its emphasis on relationships, we are led to seek the quality of fellowship and relationship with others that God intends for His people. The appeal of this kind of life should not be lost on us. Amidst that vast majority who are willing to take the first step in conflict resolution is a number of others who will realize God has already taken the first step toward them.

Yours for the Great Commission,

Ronnie W. Floyd