Forever Love | Navigating Conflict

“To be married is to give oneself to another person in the most intimate and inclusive of human relationships, to support him or her for good in every way possible – physically, emotionally, and spiritually, of course, but in every conceivable dimension of his or her being with the goal of being a constant blessing to one another and the world.” - Dallas Willard 1. Conflict is a normal part of life that happens when you are at odds with another person over what you think, want, or do. 2. Our natural human responses to conflict are “assault” or “withdrawal.” 3. God’s response and invitation for us to respond is always reconciliation. Colossians 3:12-15 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against each other. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body, you were called to peace.” • Express your commitment even when the conflict is not yet resolved. • Get some space and invite God into the situation. • Carve out intentional time to talk through the issue. • If you get stuck, get help.