Day 8

Listen to Today’s Reading:

What do you do when you are in the middle of a conflict? What do you do when you disagree, are frustrated, or angry? Relationships are hard, and not everyone does the right thing. To be honest, conflict is unavoidable.

Today’s Passage: Ephesians 4:25–27, 29–32

25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 

29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Paul is saying that when you have conflict, you should move positively in the direction of the other person. Don’t gossip and tear them down. Instead, listen for their point of view, act with kindness, look for ways to encourage, and offer forgiveness.

Reflect: God wants you to learn to be good at handling conflict. Who are you having conflict with? 

Pray: Ask God to help you navigate your way through. He wants to help you.