Conflict...
How does conflict start?
2 Samuel 15:1-12...Absalom stole the hearts of the people...and the conspiracy gained momentum.
Conflict begins when we don't get what we wants, and the only way to get it is to take it from someone else.
This leads to disagreement and can lead to open warfare.
Acts 15:36-41 Their disagreement over this was so sharp that they separated...
Conflict begins when two opposing viewpoints are not willing to find common ground.
Esther 3;1-9 But Mordecai refused to bow...(Hanan) was filled with rage. So he decided it was not
enough to lay hands on Mordecai alone....He decided to destroy all the Jews throughout the entire
empire...
Conflict begins when we seek revenge.
Romans 7:14-25 When I want to do good, I don't . And when I try not to do wrong, I do it anyway...
Conflict begins when good confronts evil. The two cannot peacefully coexist. One must triumph.
What are some ways to resolve conflict?
Genesis 13;7-9 "This arguing between our herdsmen has got to stop," (Abraham) said..."I'll tell you
what we'll do..."
Solving conflict takes initiative; someone must make the first move. Abram gave Lot first choice, putting
family peace above personal desires.
Genesis 26;17-22...Isaac's men then dug another well, but again there was a fight over it...he dug
another well, and the local people finally left him alone.
Solving conflict takes humility, a desire to see peace more than personal victory.
How do I keep a conflict from getting out of control?
Proverbs 17;27 A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.
Words can be used as tools or weapons and therefore must be used carefully.
Matthew 5;23-26 Go and be reconciled to that person...
We are not to "bury" or deny conflicts, but rather to take immediate steps to resolve them.
Matthew 18;15-17 If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the fault...Jesus
outlines a three step process for confronting major conflicts among believers.
Romans 16:17 Stay away from those who cause divisions and are upsetting people's faith.
Sometimes the best way to deal with conflict is to avoid it.
PROMISE FROM GOD: Matthew 5;43-45 You have heard that the law of Moses says, "Love
your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say, Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!
In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven...
"TouchPoints"