Resolve Conflict
It’s been a tough year! The events of 2020 have been hard on everyone. We’ve experienced a global pandemic, navigated an exhausting and unnerving election, and witnessed the painful upheaval of everything normal we have cherished in our lives. Most are stressed out by our present circumstance, and many are worried about what unknowns may be lurking ahead. While it is only normal to be concerned about such things, the Christian should not live a life of anxiety and fear. Despite the challenges and the uncertainties before us, God’s people can enter this new year and experience God’s peace in the year 2021.
Paul certainly knew the peace of God! In fact, Paul wrote the book of Philippians to illuminate the joy and peace found in Jesus. One of Paul’s several purposes for penning this letter was to give the Philippi-an congregation greater peace of mind. The church at Philippi was one of Paul’s most beloved and faithful supporters (1:3-10; 4:14-20). Having learned that Paul was incarcerated in Rome, the church was naturally concerned about their much-loved brother. Paul, therefore, wrote them this prison letter to ease their troubled minds and help them to be at peace. Towards the end of the letter, Paul explained “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:6) found in knowing “the God of Peace” (Philippians 4:8). When we look closer at the context of these declarations, we see Paul closing his letter by highlighting some essentials to experience God’s peace. These imperatives will help us this year too!
In writing to the Philippians, one of Paul’s closing objectives was to address some unresolved conflict between two sisters in the church. The apostle wrote, “I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord” (Philippians 4:1). For some unspecified reason, a dispute arose between these two Christians, their unity in the Lord was threatened, and Paul was disappointed. He tenderly appealed for resolution! The apostle even called upon his “true companion” (likely an elder, preacher, or prominent member at Philippi) to step in, serve as a mediator, and “help these women” (Philippians 4:2 ESV). Paul reminded all parties that they are on the same team since their names are all “in the book of life” (Philippians 4:3). This comforting truth should have been more than enough motivation for them to work together to work things out. Conflict is a colossal barrier that would have kept these brethren from truly experiencing the peace of God. Resolving this conflict was absolutely essential for Philippi to enjoy God’s peace.
Friend, is there unresolved conflict in your life? Is there an undercurrent of tension between you and some brother or sister in the congregation? Is there hurt and hostility growing in your heart? You can’t be right with the Lord and be at odds with your brethren! You can’t fully enjoy the peace of God if there is anger eating away at your mind each day! Don’t let pride keep you from making things right with that someone in your life. Remember, Jesus died for them too, and their name is written in the book of life alongside yours. You are both living for the same Lord and striving for the same goal! Seeking peace might not be easy, but you‟ll be glad you did. You will probably sleep much better afterwards! Challenge yourself to take that first step towards resolution today, and experience the peace of God in 2021.
Brandon Baggett is a former Pulpit Minister for Eastern Meadows Church of Christ.
