1. By Ken Sande

2.  A difference in opinion or purpose that frustrates someone’s goals or desires.  Conflict starts in the heart.  What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? James 4:1

3.  Misunderstandings resulting from poor communication  Differences in values, goals, priorities, expectations, interests or opinions  Competition over things like time or money is a common problem in families and churches  Sinful attitudes and habits

4.  Escape  Attack  Peacemaking  Ways we might try to escape conflict: denial, flight, suicide  Ways we might try to win an argument: verbal attack, physical violence, money

5.  Peacemaking is resolving a conflict in a Godly way.

6.  Glorify God  Get the log out of your own eye  Gently restore  Go and be reconciled

7.  How can we glorify God?  Focusing on God which is the key to resolving any conflict

8.  Trust God  Obey God  Imitate God  Acknowledge God

9.  Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding: In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes ; fear the Lord and flee from evil. (Proverbs 3:5-7)

10.  I (Jesus) have brought you (God) glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. (John 17:4)

11.  Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:1- 2)

12.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see you good deeds and glorify your father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

13.  We should see conflict as an opportunity to demonstrate the love and power of God.

14.  Every letter of the New Testament talks about peace. It is clear that God intended for all Christians to be peacemakers.

15.  Be completely humble and gentle ; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:2-3)

16.  If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)

17.  If you would like more information about learning how to be an effective peacemaker, contact: Marc Mueller at marcandtoni@com or call 15750720761.