Listen to the Word

“If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.”  (Matthew 18:15)

Jesus approaches the issue of conflict resolution with his customarily perfect blend of grace and truth.

He says, “go and point out their fault.” Don’t dance around the issue. Be direct. Don’t get fuzzy and say part of what concerns you and hope they will fill in the blanks and figure out the rest. Speak the truth clearly.

But he also says to discuss things “just between the two of you.” This is a reminder to be sensitive in the way you approach them. There is no need to make a public announcement of the flaws of the other person. There is no need to embarrass them by forcing them to respond in front of an audience. Don’t just toss the “truth” out there like a grenade. Jesus would have you deal with the other person as you would want them to deal with you – with grace.

Live the Word

Which is harder for you to demonstrate in situations of conflict – grace or truth? Ask God to grow that trait in you.