Devotion: Resolving Conflict
Pastor Greg’s sermon on resolving conflict is a good reminder for us to slow down and meditate on Paul’s words in Philippians 4:1–9. Paul was no stranger to conflict. In nearly every one of his letters, he reminded the churches of the importance of living in a way that shows honor and love to one another so much so that it magnifies the love and grace of Jesus both within the church and to the world.
Conflict, whether in the home, workplace, church, or anywhere else, is rarely embraced in a healthy way. This is why Paul’s words are so vital for us. He doesn’t ignore the conflict between Euodia and Syntyche but instead calls the church to come alongside them and help them be of the same mind in Christ. In doing so, Paul shows us that our spiritual formation is not an isolated journey. Knowing this, we need our community if we are going to deal with conflict in a way that honors Jesus.
From my own experience, I have often found better outcomes when I choose to pray before reacting and when I invite a few trusted spiritual friends to help me process the situation. Left to my own perception and instincts, I am prone to escalate the conflict or misread the situation entirely. But when I open myself to God through prayer and allow others to speak His wisdom and grace into my heart, I find myself better able to surrender my intentions to His.
Paul reminds us that when we bring our requests before God with thanksgiving, His peace will guard our hearts and minds. That peace allows us to release control and trust that God is at work even in conflict. As we focus our minds on what is true, noble, and lovely, and as we practice these truths in daily life, we are being formed into people who reflect the character of Christ. We become the kind of people who can handle conflict with humility, patience, and love.
Resolving conflict is never easy, but Philippians 4 shows us it can be a place where God forms us more deeply in the likeness of Jesus if we are willing to bring it to Him, lean on our community, and let His peace lead the way.
Lord Jesus, speak to us and guide us in moments of disagreement and argument. Help us to model your love and grace in a way that helps us to love our neighbor as ourselves. May we reach out to you and to the community of fellow disciples who can help us to work through conflict in a way that honors and glorifies you. Amen.
Written by Matt Clay
Matt and his wife Joanna have two young daughters, Emery and Madisen. The Clay’s have been members of the Sheridan community since 2014. Matt’s spiritual growth has been influenced by the teaching of the late Dallas Willard, which led Matt to pursue an M.A. in Spiritual Formation from Spring Arbor University. Matt works full-time in the financial industry and believes that God has called him to be a steward of His grace and presence in the marketplace.