“But Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord.” — Acts 15:40
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Interpersonal conflict is a fact of life. Many of us try to avoid conflict or even run from it, but unresolved conflict can be dangerous. It leads to resentment, bitterness and causes some physical ailments. On a team, unresolved conflict can quickly lead to a lack of unity, causing the team to perform below its potential.
We find numerous examples of interpersonal conflict in the Bible. Even the famous apostle Paul and Barnabas the encourager got into such a fierce disagreement that they decided to split up and go in different directions. (Later, their conflict was resolved and they worked together in harmony.)
Do not be surprised if you find yourself involved in a conflict. What is important is how you handle the conflict once it occurs. Scripture outlines a plan for dealing with conflict. It involves going. Whether we have been offended or we have offended someone else, the first step is the same: GO! We are to go to the other person and attempt to work it out. If that does not work, we should seek objective Godly counsel from someone outside the conflict. Perhaps a mediator may help the conversation.
Though we cannot control the other person, we are to do all we can to resolve the conflict and live at peace with others. So, we go in faith and trust God to bring about a resolution. To whom might you need to go?
— Karen Zando, NWSL’s Orlando Pride chaplain
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