Conflict

I think how you handle conflict says a lot about you as a person.  No matter who you are, you will be involved in conflict at some point in your life.  So how do you handle it?  Recent events have caused me to take a longer look at how conflict arises and how to handle it.  Conflict can arise when at least one person feels that someone or something he/she values and cares about is harmed, disrespected, stolen, or has not been treated fairly.  Sometimes it is just an issue of miscommunication.  That is an easy fix if both sides are given a chance to talk it over.  Another more difficult situation involves someone that has a selfish or biased standard from which they rationalize their decisions.  If that person is not able to look past their own selfish desires it will be very difficult to resolve this conflict peacefully.  So how do you resolve this conflict? I believe you have to test your own thoughts and desires with a gold standard. In my case I choose the Bible.  Does your thoughts and motives follow along with the teachings of Christ and his apostles? If they don't, you may need to rethink your position in this conflict.  If you feel your thoughts are in accordance with what the Bible teaches then stand firm.  Christ calls us to stand firm in the Word. If you feel called to take a stand based on Biblical principles and don't do it, you are missing an opportunity to be a witness for Christ. Some people are not able to defend themselves and rely on others to stand up for them. America needs strong Christian men and women who are ready and willing to take a stand for Him.  Sometimes relationships are broken after conflict, but knowing you were obedient to Christ should bring an inner peace to your heart and mind.  You are ultimately accountable only to one final Judge, use His gold Standard when you face a conflict.