All of us have had conversations with people who feel they have been treated unjustly. Our children, friends, and even those whom we encounter as Assistants. There is something within our human makeup that rallies to be heard. To be told “we” are right, and “they” are wrong. To be validated. To be vindicated.
To be brought in on these types of disputes with the purpose of persuading me to join a side has always been uncomfortable, despite my high-justice wiring. As a peacemaker/mediator, I want to see the right thing done, yet I hate the confrontation of slimy pride that comes with pointing out an offense to justice. This us vs them mentality is so contrary to the peace I seek each day. And it seems equally wrong that the most eloquent speaker is often able to persuade the masses even if what they are so eloquently speaking is … false.
Yes, there are two sides to every story, and just as many variations of reports as there are witnesses to an incident. Seeing things through our own lenses is human nature. But intentional persuasion of falsehood as truth is rooted in sin – prideful, wrong and damaging.
As believers, how should we respond when we recognize these kinds of actions?
- Put on our armor.
*The Lord has provided protection for us when we go into a spiritual battle.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,
against the powers of this dark world and
against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:10-12
- Pray.
*Ask the Lord for wisdom and discernment as you enter the conversational fray.
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God,
who gives generously to all without finding fault,
and it will be given to you.
James 1:5
- Acknowledge the value of each person regardless of their position.
*All of us have been in the wrong and even when we are at our worst, we are loved by the Lord. Compassion for all involved as beloved children of God helps us approach the situation with the intent to be kind, not necessarily to deem one person right and the other wrong.
Above all, love each other deeply,
because love covers over a multitude of sins.
1 Peter 4:8
- Listen.
*In order for productive listening to happen, establish honoring parameters for the conversation. This is no time for additional hurts to be added.
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgement.
Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, “Raca,” is answerable to the court.
And anyone who says, “You fool!” will be in danger of the fire of hell.
Matthew 5:22
- Be peacemakers.
*Unity with – loving – our brothers and sisters is one of the ways the world sees us as different and is drawn to the Lord. Peace has become a rarity, yet all creation desires it. Peace is a fruit of God’s wisdom, and it comes with a promise of righteousness.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:9
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure;
then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
James 3:17-18
Our loving Father has ordained us to be carriers of His peace, signposts of His grace, and lovers of His people. We are equipped by the Almighty to accomplish things far beyond our own ability. Not for our recognition but for His glory. He trusts us with this precious assignment, to be mouthpieces of His Truth. Yes, friends….
You are adored.
You Are Adored 