OK…no excuses…just been takin’ a break from bloggin’!!! It seems as though my life has been slammed full of busy work lately. So, as a consequence my blog life has taken a hit. Sorry!!!
Today I want to discuss the topic of conflict resolution. In my almost 18 yrs. Of pastoral ministry I believe Christians are the worst examples at resolving their differences…it’s almost childish. As a matter of fact, we’ll often discipline our children for not playing together well, yet at the same time we’re horrible at doing it ourselves.
I’ve been apart of “church splits” during my lifetime that from the outset seemed to be insignificant but eventually turned into an all-out church war. All because “Christians” couldn’t “play together” like God’s children should. And to make it worse, often time those who have an inability to coexist just quit one body of believers and move on to the next…never settling the issues…all as a result of poor conflict management.
What if we took this attitude in our work places? Most of us would never make it through the first week. We’d be on a constant job hunt!!!
Well, the obvious question is, “Why are human beings this way?” “What causes us to handle our differences so poorly?” One answer. Are you ready for this?
PRIDE!!! When it comes to dealing with problems between one another, our pride stops us dead in our tracks most of the time. Listen, I’m not suggesting that we should all agree on everything; however, I would suggest that we have a Biblical mandate (Mark 11:25-26) to, at the very least, not harbor any bitterness or anger.
So, before you throw away a relationship, or run to another church, remember this…God will hold you accountable in the end as it relates to this subject matter. You may think that “holding a grudge” is something God doesn’t care about…but you’re sadly mistaken. He cares very much!!!
Furthermore, let me encourage you to make conscious effort to do it God’s way. Don’t allow the enemy to blindfold you into mismanaging your personal relationships. If you have an issue with someone…go to them and resolve it. It’s the God way of doing things!!!
Have a great day!!!
Pastor Neal
Welcome back to the blog Neal! I told Ashley I wasn’t going to check for a new blog entry anymore, but after Sunday’s wonderful service, I had to see if you would write again. I’m glad to see it!
Comment by Christie — February 13, 2007 @ 11:21 pm
i have the problems with that to, but i’m trying to work on it… just pray for me….
Comment by connie — March 8, 2007 @ 5:12 pm