Monday, April 15, 2024

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)

You could change the “if” at the beginning of this week’s Scripture to a “when.” It is going to happen. Someone in your life is going to offend you. You will experience conflict. That conflict may take the form of open hostility, or simmering resentment, or just a growing distance between you and the other person. But if you are in relationships, you can count on some conflict. This week we will examine Jesus’ practical instruction for addressing that conflict.

Jesus challenges us to acknowledge the problem and take action. The central command of his instruction is “go.” Don’t stick your head in the sand and ignore the obvious. Don’t dodge the person or the issue. Don’t pretend the conflict is ok. Look the problem square in the eye and deal with it. Go to the other person and do the hard work required to make things right.

Live the Word

Have you experienced conflict with someone recently? Spend a moment praying for that person, and for your relationship with them.