Seeing Eye to Eye

If you haven’t been hiding out in the nearest cave, you’ve probably noticed a lot of conflict and disagreements in the news lately. Whether it’s opinions about the Presidential race or something so simple as a Cowboy quarterback controversy, conflict and disagreement are front and center stage.

No one likes conflict or even a sharp disagreement for that matter. Most people when asked about conflict, would lean toward just avoiding it. Conflicts can occur in healthy marriages, among friends, in the workplace, and in the world around us. We see conflicts arise on TV, twitter and Facebook as people communicate their opinions about any particular subject.

Conflict happens when we have a different perspective than someone else. That can lead to a disagreement. The disagreement can lead to painful words or what many often do, give the cold shoulder treatment. The cold shoulder treatment leaves part of the party in the unknown as to what took place. What is the ultimate goal of a cold shoulder?  Painful words can lead to a parting of ways. That' doesn't seem like a good way to deal with conflict either! So, how do we demonstrate a bond of peace when relationships get tested?

First, let’s realize that it’s OK to have a disagreement. We will not always see things entirely the same as someone else. Accept the person who thinks differently. Listen to them. Ask questions about their viewpoint. Don’t try to just get your opinion out. Stop the cold shoulder treatment. Have courage to discuss the issue at hand. You may not every find a resolution, but you can communicate with love, respect and honor.

Secondly, I believe our enemy, Satan, seeks to destroy relationships the best he can. He aims to put a wedge between people. It may start small, but build and build, until there is a wall between two people. Sometimes, we’re left to wonder what even happened to create this! Recognize Satan’s determination to bring conflict. Ask God for help and take the road of humility to restore what was lost.

Finally, love truly does conquer all. “The world will know that we are your disciples if we love one another.” (John 13:34)  Stop holding grudges. Put an end to the gossiping about other people. Start looking at your own faults instead of pointing the figure toward others. We are so quick to judge others that we fail to see the sin in our own hearts.  Learn to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19)

We may never see eye to eye on various matters in our day. But, each day, we have the privilege of pursuing peace and loving people well, even if we disagree. Any conflict in your life? May the peace of God restore, rebuild and renew broken relationships in your life today. 

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.