Day 1: Managing Conflict
For decades, research has been pretty clear: The number one area of needed growth for any organization or personal relationship falls into the areas of communication and/or conflict resolution. As such, it shouldn’t be surprising that the Apostle Paul writes to the Corinthians about their need to manage conflict well. Not only was Paul concerned about relational tensions amongst Christians, he was also concerned for how they would handle legal cases against one another.
As an example, lawsuits in Corinth were quite common and decisions were swift and often unfair. If evidence was lacking or non-existent, people of a higher status usually won the case. Additionally, those in minority groups within the city were expected to handle their own cases. Groups who dismissed this cultural norm were heavily criticized by the public. As such, Paul wanted to ensure that the Christians in Corinth followed the cultural standards so they would not be seen as troublemakers by the social elite.
The wisdom Paul provided about handling legal cases well would not have been missed by the Corinthians. As you read today, consider this: What is the most important truth you’ve learned about communication and conflict resolution?
READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 6:1-11
What is the most important truth you’ve learned about communication and conflict resolution?
Is there anything in today’s reading that affirms this truth? Is there another Scripture passage that affirms it?
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
Read: Jeremiah 31:31-40, 32, & 33
Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, today I confess that while I’ve learned some valuable lessons in the areas of communication and conflict resolution, I have room for continual growth. Beginning a new week, I pray that You will reveal to me some specific growth areas for me, not only in how I communicate with others, but also in how I think about communicating with others. May the words I speak, share, and think be words of encouragement. May You provide me wisdom to think well of myself and of others, and to respond to conflict in a way that is godly and pure. I pray these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Click here if you would like to provide feedback to help us make the daily devotional and scripture reading guide even better.
