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Three Keys to Effective Conflict

Three Keys for Facing Conflict

For most of us, conflict is hard! Many of us would rather avoid conflict than engage in it. One of the reasons we tend to avoid conflict or perceived conflict with others is our own fear of being disliked or considered "rude". A key to overcoming that fear lies in our personal relationship with God. For all of us, the strength to face difficulties, whether they be relational or otherwise, comes from security in God. How are you learning to rest in Jesus and in who He has made you to be, and is making you to be? As we grow in your security in Him, we grow in our ability to face conflict. 

 If you are facing the need to have a difficult conversation with a family member, a friend, a co-worker, or a church family member, consider the following keys for effectiveness.

1. Consider your motives


    1. Have you stopped to consider your own motives? 
    2. Ask yourself, "Why is this important to me?" 

2. Consider your source

    1. Have you spent time with God, allowing Him access to your inner self so that He can show you unresolved areas in your own emotional life?
    2. Ask yourself, "How much time have I spent praying and waiting on God in this issue?

3. Consider your "adversary"

    1. Have you spent time considering his/her motives and life story?
    2. Ask yourself, "What do I know about him/her?" 
    3. Consider asking questions of him/her instead of launching in on what is wrong with them.
Conflict is inevitable! We live as flawed people dealing with flawed people. 


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