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Rev. Dan Hawn

Senior Pastor

                   Peacemaking – Part 2

Last week, I introduced the topic of peacemaking (or resolving conflict). We learned:

 Conflict is a fact of life and is the result of our sin nature.
 There are 3 categories of responses to conflict – escape responses, attack responses or conciliation responses.
 God repeatedly commands His people to pursue peace and promises to bless us if we do.


One thing I failed to do last week was define conflict. Conflict is “a difference in opinion or purpose that frustrates someone’s goals or desires.”

Most importantly, the Bible teaches that we should see conflict neither as an inconvenience nor as an occasion for selfish gain, but rather an opportunity to demonstrate the presence and power of God.

This is what the Apostle Paul told the Christians in Corinth when religious, legal and dietary disputes threatened to divide their church:

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks, or the church of God – even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, . . . Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ (I Cor. 10:31-11:1).

This passage presents a radical view of conflict; it encourages us to look at conflict as an opportunity to glorify God, to serve others, and to grow to be like Christ.

This perspective may seem naïve and foolish at first glance, especially to anyone who is presently embroiled in a dispute. However, this view can inspire remarkably practical (and effective) responses to conflict.

After focusing on God and his concerns, the next step is to focus on yourself – not to justify yourself and develop a scheme to get your way, but to examine your attitude and evaluate your faults and responsibilities in the situation. This personal inspection will help you see things more clearly, overlook minor offenses, and take responsibility for your contributions to the dispute. Many times, this will accelerate a solution to the conflict.

We’ll address the importance of personal introspection a bit more next week.

With appreciation,

Pastor Dan

Note: Some of the above material comes from “The Peacemaker” by Ken Sande.
   

 

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2009 Harlan, IA

 

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