The Peacemaker

by Ken Sande

would be a serious mistake to blame all conflict on Satan. We need to take responsibility for our sins and encourage others to do the same.

The Greek word that is translated “make every effort” in this passage means to strive eagerly, earnestly, and diligently.

The primary benefit of resolving disputes through the church is that it preserves our witness for Christ.

will be able to serve him faithfully as a peacemaker, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Bible teaches that God’s dominion is so great that he has ultimate control over all things.

he sometimes allows suffering and permits unjust acts by men and women whom he decides not to restrain, even though he has the power to do so.

knowledge of the sovereignty of God should motivate us to be even more responsible.

every conflict that comes into our lives has somehow been ordained by God.

God also uses our trials to teach us how to minister to others when they are suffering

Bible also provides clear and practical instructions on how to respond effectively to the challenges God allows in our lives.

“‘Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.’ And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them” (Gen. 50:19–21).

when God gives a disability, he also gives us the means to deal with it

If you do not believe that he is both sovereign and good, trust will be an elusive thing, for a god who is loving but not in control is simply “a heavenly Santa Claus . . . who means well, but cannot always insulate his children from trouble and grief.”

if you believe that God is sovereign and good, you will be able to trust him and obey him, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

On the other hand, if you believe that God is sovereign and that he will never allow anything into your life unless it can be used for good, you will see conflicts not as accidents but as opportunities.

Overlooking is not a passive process in which you simply remain silent for the moment but file away the offense for later use against someone.

overlooking is an active process that is inspired by God’s mercy through the gospel. To truly overlook an offense means to deliberately decide not to talk about it, dwell on it, or let it grow into pent-up bitterness.

Being gentle in the midst of conflict is a powerful way to breathe grace to others, especially when your behavior is “evident to

Conflict is often much more expensive than we expect it to be.