Handling Conflict

If anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do."

-Colossians 3:13 (NKJV)

In any relationship, it is good to talk things out face-to-face. Most of us are not very good at navigating conflict and disagreement. Sometimes we try to make our feelings known through passive aggressive comments and/or actions. Sometimes we remain silent and keep our feelings bottled up. Often we let small issues fester. Then we impute wrong motives and end up with a wall. This can lead to bitterness and the breakdown of the relationship.

If you are in a conflict situation with someone, here are some important principles to remember. Many disagreements come from misunderstanding. Ask the Lord to give you insight into the other's feelings and perspective. Choose not to overthink the problem. Choose, if possible, to overlook it. And always be willing to forgive.

-From The One Year Wisdom for Women Devotional by Debbi Bryson; February 22

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