Without minimizing the very real pain, hurt, and loss that conflict brings, it is important to realize that it also introduces three golden opportunities into our lives. As followers of Christ, we can see Him doing good to us in the midst of distress and conflict.
First and foremost, everything in our lives, both the good and the bad, is a backdrop upon which the glory of God is seen. God is always working in our situations to see His glory reflected in us. The Bible and the history of the Church tell the story of God’s children displaying the Father’s love as He teaches us how to respond to conflict, both inwardly and outwardly. We display His character when we, in faith, allow the wisdom and ways of God to be our wisdom and ways. As God’s grace and peace shines through our lives, a hurting world sees His love.
Secondly, conflict not only presents an opportunity to reflect God to the world, but it also serve as part of the process that conforms us into the image of Jesus Christ. Through conflict, believers are given the mind and heart of Christ. The old self is replaced with the renewed mind of the Savior.
The third golden opportunity afforded to us through conflict is that, as we seek to glorify God and be remade in the image of Christ, we are able to partner with God as He redeems a broken world. Conflict is an opportunity to minister grace into the life of another person. As the glory of God and the mind of Christ are displayed in our lives, people will experience an eternal, growing relationship with their Creator.
Conflict is painful. But by focusing on the “golden” opportunities, we can have peace and joy as we experience the eternal work of God in our lives and in the lives of others.
