Communication and Connection: A Biblical PerspectiveSample

Conflict Resolution God's Way

Can you imagine ever resolving a conflict when your spouse has no idea a conflict even exists? It would be impossible. While Matthew 18 gives multiple lengths to which you go to resolve a conflict, the starting place is to go and tell the person that a conflict exists. If the goal is to resolve conflict, you must be willing to address it first.

In our counseling practice, we often teach our conflict-avoidant clients that they are being peace "fakers" instead of peacemakers by avoiding conflict. This is the exact opposite of what God calls us to be. The problem with avoidance and being a peace "faker" is that you start building resentment when you avoid addressing issues. Things may seem peaceful on the surface, but over time, you become a ticking time bomb from holding back so much while no one else has a clue that anything is wrong.

Conflict can be scary, but having it in healthy ways can reach resolutions that otherwise wouldn't be achieved. If you start addressing conflict and then choose to bear the hard stuff with one another and walk in forgiveness, you'll make great strides in resolutions and connecting. Then, you'll become the true peacemaker you are created to be.

Take Action:

Is there anything you are avoiding addressing in your marriage now? Instead of allowing bitterness and resentment to root, try bringing up the issue with your spouse.

Let's Pray:

Dear Lord,

I ask you to go before me in any conflict with my spouse. Please help us have healthy conflicts, bear with one another, and forgive one another freely. In Jesus' name, amen.