As a counselor, I get to observe my share of conflicts. Frankly as a parent and church member, I get a close up view of conflict as well.
Conflict seems to be a constant in our culture, homes, churches, and relationships. We may go through seasons of peace, but we never seem to completely outrun the long arm of conflict. Further, in times of crisis, conflicts may seem to be exponentially more frequent and difficult to solve.
James 3:13-4:3 reveals four things we should evaluate as we experience conflict:
#1 – Your Perspective (James 3:13-15)
James starts with the question, “who is wise and understanding among you?” Think about the importance of this question. In conflict, we almost always see our perspective as truth, or the only right way. If we thought we were wrong or undeserving, we wouldn’t persist in conflict for very long.
James reminds us that in conflict, we are easily self-deceived by our strong desires and selfish perspective. He goes on to say that the wise person in conflict proves it by acting fairly, graciously, and wisely.
Key Question: Do you always think you are right in conflict?
#2 – Who You’re Focused On (James
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