Choosing Conflict
My heart pounded and my stomach ached… I couldn’t eat, didn’t sleep well, and just felt nervous. All over a conflict with someone I really wished would go away.
The conflict, I mean.
J
This was less than just seven years ago. I couldn’t seem to get on the same page with an individual. No matter what I did, I upset her, and even though I tried really hard, nothing worked.
And now, I make decisions to actively enter conflict with others – as an effort to build bridges and bring others alongside what we’re doing, or resolve an issue.
Like this week, I chose to be a guest on a secular radio show. And I made the decision, knowing that the nationally syndicated show had a history of confrontation, debate, and arguing against the Bible.
And I decided to do it anyway, because I felt led.
And it went fine. The interview on The Respect Dare lasted for an hour, instead of the 20-30 minutes originally discussed.
And we took callers.
And I had fun.
J
One of the big points I made that night is the same one I’ll make now – learn how to do conflict well and choose to stay in the relationship!
God wants us to do this well – and if you submit fully to reading His Word daily, He’ll grow you – and change your attitude about conflict, just like He did mine.
Dare you.
J
Glad to be on the journey with you!
~Nina
Excellent thought, LOVE that conflict article you linked to. It’s a GREAT thought!!! Thanks for the encouragement to keep growing, keep maturing, living intentionally!
I am so imperfect in this area! I used to yell to get my point across but now I listen pause, think some more before I respond. @ Nina what tv show where you on? Thanks, Cat
It was “Voice of Reason” with Zo Williams – he’s the “African American Dr. Phil” – I have no idea how they found me, but I got an email, threw out a fleece, and it turned out to be a surprise!
And good for you for learning to pause and think!
🙂