Last night we had a church meeting where some difficult matters and differences of opinion needed discussion. While it was respectful it wasn’t easy either.
How do you manage conflict? Is it something that you thrive on or run away? A place where you feel happy to say your piece or a context you shy away from? My Dad had very strong opinions on certain matters and I learnt growing up to keep my views to myself to avoid arguments I would never win. It wasn’t worth the aggravation or do I thought. Even as an adult it was only matters I felt really strongly about, such as chosing to follow God’s leading to Africa, where I would disagree. The dangers of not stating your case, of course, are that you bury feelings that come out in other unhelpful ways and you lose self-respect.
Photo by Alex Green on Pexels.com 
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com
Conflict is a frequent consequence of becoming a Jesus follower. In “Honour and shame” cultures such as in the middle and far east the decision of an individual is seen as subservient to the greater good. To leave the family religion is seen as bringing shame to the whole clan. A person must be made to reconform or be thrown out or even killed. To stand strong in such circumstances takes considerable courage and commitment.
On a happier note I am putting together a calendar for sale on behalf of Open Doors. Do let me know if you are interested. Most are landscapes but I have included a rose to keep some supporters happy!
Adrian@60 