Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.— Ephesians 4:31-32
Years ago, a large statue of Christ was erected high in the Andes on the border between Argentina and Chile. Called “Christ of the Andes,” this statue symbolizes a pledge between the two countries that as long as the statue stands, there will be peace between Chile and Argentina.
But shortly after the statue was erected, the citizens of Chile began to protest that they had been slighted—the statue had its back turned to Chile. Just when tempers were at their highest in Chile, a Chilean newspaperman saved the day. In an editorial that not only satisfied the people but made them laugh, he simply wrote,
“The people of Argentina need more watching over than the Chileans!”
Many people today seem like they’re looking for reasons to get bent out of shape. They make mountains out of molehills, and quite often end up in endless arguments that are more about pride than what is actually right.
But good humor has the ability to calm a tense situation. So when tension exists, remember not to take yourself too seriously. Don’t allow conflict to ruin a relationship. Humble yourself and realize that most conflict is inconsequential in the scope of eternity.
Prayer Challenge
Pray that God would give you wisdom and guidance to navigate conflict when it arises.
Questions for thought
How have you typically dealt with conflict in your life?
What conflict in your life today can you help resolve by humbling yourself?