Exhortations from a Veteran Leader Who Has Experienced Conflict
1. Honor God at all times
Even when it feels as though others are less committed to that desire, it must be our priority.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might” —Deuteronomy 6:5
2. Be intentional — Set up your guidelines
Plan early on how you will engage with those who are querying your efforts and even your motives. Be above reproach in those conversations and relationships.
3. Turn the other cheek as needed
If it feels like others are fighting dirty, don’t stoop to those levels of engagement no matter how much the flesh within you wants to retaliate in similar ways.
4. Cling to the Lord and turn to the church
In a disagreement within the family of God, the Church has a vital an important role to play in mediating between disagreeing parties.
5. Remain humble and be willing to be humbled by others
There are always things we can learn to improve our ministries as well as ourselves.
6. Know your enemy
We do have an enemy. But our brothers and sisters, no matter how disagreeable they may become, are not our enemy. The enemy of the Gospel is the Devil. Resist him. Love your brothers and sisters, even those who act as if they do not love you.
