“There is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5, NIV)
When you have conflict, focus on reconciliation, not resolution.
There’s a big difference between those two words. Reconciliation means re-establishing the relationship. Resolution means resolving every issue. In most cases, resolution isn’t going to happen — there are some things you’ll just never agree on.
Can you have a loving relationship without agreeing on everything? Absolutely. But it takes wisdom. When you’re wise, you learn to disagree without being disagreeable; you learn to walk hand in hand without having to see eye to eye.
One of the greatest things you can do with your life is to be a bridge builder, not a wall builder. You are most like Jesus Christ when you are reconciling people. That’s exactly what Jesus came to do! God sent Jesus to earth to reconcile humanity with God.
Jesus is the great reconciler. The Bible says, “There is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5, NIV).
But you cannot make peace with other people until you make peace with God. If you find yourself in constant conflict, ask yourself whether you’ve made peace with God. You can make peace with God by repenting of your sins and dedicating your life to serving him.
The Bible calls Jesus the Prince of Peace. Peace with God leads to peace with yourself, which leads to peace with others.
Ask yourself:
- Is there a relationship where you’ve been trying unsuccessfully for resolution? What step can you take toward reconciliation instead?
- How have you been encouraged by a Christian who’s a bridge builder, not a wall builder?
- Are you at peace with God? If not, what’s keeping you from making peace with him today?
Prayer
Lord, I cannot live my life without You. Forgive me my sins and fill me with Your love and mercy. Let me, by Your grace, live my life on the path You have set, and let Your love shine to all I meet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
