The dominant disposition of God towards us is not judgement but mercy and grace. This must therefore also become the dominant note in our lives. Sometimes it is necessary to deal with others in firmness, a hard word and even, in some formal cases, with disciplinary action. But this must never become the dominant note in our dealings with people as indeed it is not the dominant note in God’s dealing with us. In all things we must be quick to show mercy and grace. Sometimes we say that we forgive someone but continue to punish them by withdrawal of respect and affection. Conflict must be handled with great care. It is important that we allow conflict to surface, but it must always be engaged with the right goal in mind. The ultimate goal in all things must be reconciliation. We must therefore ask ourselves the question: “Am I moving this situation towards reconciliation? Am I communicating to draw us together or am I just verbally attacking the other person and pushing them away?” Conflict can only ever resolve with a mutual expression of grace and forgiveness. Without this, conflict turns into perpetual enmity. The Devil will tempt you to either avoid conflict or to perpetuate conflict indefinitely out of pride and vindictiveness. As Paul says here, let us not be unaware of his schemes.
Where do you need to show mercy and forgiveness?
Read 2 Corinthians 2:5-11
