Sometimes the words or actions of others upset, disappoint, or confuse us. Sometimes we are the ones who upset, disappoint, or confuse others.
When conflict happens, what can we do to move forward with peace and unity?
1. Seek to avoid the distractions and turmoil of this world by intentionally fixing our eyes on Jesus’ teachings and God’s desire for our lives.
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
Isaiah 26:3
2. When conflict arises, consult God’s Word to ensure our attitude and perspective is in alignment to His truth, grace, and love. If our perspective or attitude is out of alignment to His Word, repent and be at peace with God before attempting to seek peace with the other person.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
3. Embrace forgiveness. The world gets its dirty hands on everyone at some point, including us. We must remember to show the same forgiveness and grace to ourselves and to others that God has shown to us.
Peter asked Jesus, “Lord how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
“I tell you, not as many as seven, ” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven.”
Matthew 18:21-22
4. Live a life that exemplifies God’s truth, lovingly discipling and encouraging others to do the same.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
As we go forward into the weekend and on into a new week, let us remember that we’re all bound to upset, disappoint, or confuse each other at some point, but that does not make us enemies. We all make bad decisions sometimes, but bad decisions don’t make us bad people.
Walk in truth friends. Focus on Jesus. Embrace forgiveness. Encourage others. Then and only then we will know God’s peace and unity.
The Fruitful Educator 
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