God's Grace in Conflict

We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God’s grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you.
2 Corinthians 1:12

There are times in all of our lives when we have to deal with unpleasant situations with our brothers and sisters in Christ. No one likes to confront or try to make right a wrong. It can be heartbreaking, to say the least, when conflicts arise and someone gets hurt. But some things can't be ignored, and it becomes necessary to do what you need to do.

It is so very important to preface your handling of these situations with prayerful consideration and not rely upon our own understanding of each situation. Godly wisdom is the only kind of insight that will accomplish His will in any given conflict or confrontation. Jumping in to set someone straight without the blessing and guidance of the Holy Spirit can be a disastrous mistake. It will probably make matters worse.

Going to a brother in confidence that you have surrendured all to God in the matter will give you the best chance for reconciliation when the whole issue has been addressed. That should always be our utmost goal - restoration. Otherwise the entire work of the kingdom will take a hit.

Pray for those whom you know are in the midst of disputes, that they may know what is right and do it.

Lord, go before those today who are taking a stand and leaning on your everlasting arms for strength and wisdom.

Don't be a fool...

Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,
the man who gains understanding,
for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
Proverbs 3:13-15

First of all I have to comment on the fact that wisdom is referred to in the female gender. How great is that!? Sorry, that’s just a personal observation that tickled me. I’m sure there is a reason behind that, but that’s not my focus today.

The bible talks a lot about fools and the folly of mankind. There are many warnings in scripture about knowing and being attentive to God’s voice. A fool will only hear his own voice and obey it above any other.

This encouragement to gain understanding and wisdom is serious business. Our spiritual lives will stagnate without this dynamic duo, and without them we are pulled back into the world, not caring about the impact our foolishness has on those we love.

God compares wisdom to silver, gold and precious gems. He wants us to value and desire wisdom as we would covet all those prized possessions. If our heart is hungry for God, and our prayer is to stay right, wisdom and understanding are life to us.

The great thing is that it’s all available to us. He has given us his word, his Spirit, and his very voice to teach, guide and direct. Our job is to seek, listen and heed. Then we will be blessed with fellowship with God, better relationships, effective spirituality and joy.

Don’t be a fool—be a treasure hunter.