 
                                                                                                    10/13/2025
                                            Peace seems to be a fleeting experience that can easily be overshadowed by conflict. Learning to resolve conflict effectively is paramount when in the pursuit of a peaceful life. While books have been written on the topic of conflict resolution, I would like to provide a couple mindsets that can be helpful leading up to an attempt to resolve a conflict. 
1). When moving into conflict resolution with a close, voluntary relationship (such as a spouse or church member) it is important to remember the reasons you willfully engaged in the relationship initially. You chose to join with this person for valid reasons and those reasons are still there, even if they feel overshadowed by an existing conflict. Reminding yourself of these reasons before initiating conflict resolution allows you to be in the correct mindset of respect and not attacking. 
2). Do not assume their intention to be evil. Again, if you willfully engaged in a relationship with this person, you likely held their morals in high regard at some point. Opposing opinions between respected and trusted people actually has a very positive effect if the conflict is managed well. Taking on the mindset that this person is trying their best to do the right thing can empower you to gain from their insights and potentially come up with an even better plan. This mindset allows you to better listen which allows for more genuine and helpful communication. 
I am teaching a 7 week class on Biblical conflict resolution on Wednesday nights at 6:15 pm, starting October 22nd. The location is Troy First Baptist Church's "Barn" at 1016 Sand Run Road, Troy Mo. 63379. I would love to see you there!                                        
 
                                                                                                     
                                                                                                     
                                                                                                     
                                                                                                     
                                                                                                     
                                                                                                     
                                                                                                     
                                         
   
   
   
   
     
   
   
  