2.  God is not surprised by it  It’s part of every healthy relationship  The goal is NOT to avoid it but to embrace it

3.  We are sinful  We are different  Satan engineers it

4.  Note: Conflict itself isn’t a sin, but how we react to it can be and often is.  “In your conflict do not sin…”  THE “FIGHT” REACTION  THE “FLIGHT” REACTION

5.  So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. - Matthew 5:23-24

7.  God is bigger than the problem  Seek His heart for the situation AND the person.  Self-Examination (Matthew 7:3) ▪ Anger, insecurity, pride, offense.  It keeps us from acting impulsively (gossip, harsh words, etc.)  Don’t wait on the other person to experience the freedom that comes from forgiving.

8.  Go alone (Mt 18:15)  Go quickly (Keep short accounts)  Seek Understanding, not victory  Assume the best about people  Assume there’s more to the story

9.  Learn to share your feelings appropriately  Watch your tongue  Speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15)  Attack the problem not the person  Don’t over-spiritualize

10.  What has God made you aware of in yourself that you need to put into practice in dealing with conflict?  Is there a person or a situation that you need to deal with today? Or as soon as you get home?  The stakes are TOO high to continue avoiding or handling it poorly.