Conflict Resolution

Day 27 - November 7, 2021

Today I spent the morning learning about conflict resolution and I have come to some conclusions that I would like to share with you. First of all we should be introspective. Conflict resolution begins with:

  • HUMILITY
  • Matthew 18:4 says, “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
  • Matthew 23: 12 says, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
  • SELF-REFLECTION
  • Luke 6:42 says, “How can you think of saying, ‘Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye."
  • FORGIVENESS
  • Matthew 18:21-22 says, “ Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!"

If you walk into conflict thinking that you are right and the other person is wrong then resolution will take longer to arrive. If you instead walk into conflict understanding your part in the situation, reflecting on your own actions, and being willing to offer and accept forgiveness before even entering the conflict then it will be a much smoother process. It will be the easiest if both parties do the same; however, you cannot control anyone but yourself. So how do you prepare for conflict?


Some practical ways to prepare your mind and heart start with breathing. Inna Khazan Ph.D., says in a Psychology Today article, "Breathing low and slow for five minutes will allow the intensity of the sensations you experience to decrease. Of course, you can breathe for longer if you wish. And even a few low and slow breaths will help in a stressful situation."


Model for Conflict Resolution:

  1. Go alone and directly talk to the person. 
  2. Go with 2-3 others if the issue isn’t resolved.
  3. Take it to the church (when dealing with a believer).
  4. Break away from the relationship.