Conflict is where two needs that aren't the same collide.

Conflict isn't something to avoid - it's something to resolve.

Your success in many areas of life will be directly tied to your ability to handle conflict in a healthy way.

• Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
• Psalm 34:14 – “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”
• Proverbs 15:1 – “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
• Hebrews 12:14 – “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”
• 2 Corinthians 13:11 – “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”

1. GO IN – Check yourself
2. GO UP – Surrender to God
3. GO OUT – Seek resolution

Ask yourself: “Am I wearing these things?”
• Compassion – Have you considered their perspective?
• Kindness – Is your goal to be right or to bring restoration?
• Humility – Will you own 100% of your 1%?
• Gentleness – Are you calm, or are you coming in hot?
• Patience – Are you willing to listen without rushing to fix?

Being offended is inevitable, but living offended is a choice.

1. Go Out With the Right Timing

2. Go Out Willing to Listen

How To Listen Well In Conflict:
• Avoid Blame Shifting
• Avoid Being Dismissive
• Ask for Clarity
• Acknowledge Their Perspective
• You don’t have to agree with everything they say, but you can still validate their feelings.“I can see how that would be really hurtful.”
• Stay Present

3. Go Out With the Right Words

How To Choose Your Words In Conflict:
• Check Your Tone - Your tone is the bridge between your words and their heart.
• Avoid Absolute Language - Absolute language exaggerates the problem and makes it harder to focus on the real issue.
• Use “I” Statements Instead of “You” Statements - “I” statements say, “Here’s how this affected me,” instead of, “Here’s what’s wrong with you.”

The pause isn’t about avoiding the issue; it’s about creating the space to handle it in a way that honors God.

What Forgiveness Does NOT Mean
• Condoning the behavior or pretending it didn’t happen.
• Continuing a relationship if it’s unsafe or unrepentant.
• Abandoning accountability or justice.

Ask yourself:
• Have I truly received God's forgiveness and love?
• Am I harboring bitterness towards someone that I need to forgive?
• Is there a conflict I need to resolve to release an offense?
• Do I realize forgiveness isn’t weakness—it’s worship.