Courage to Resolve

2 Timothy 1:5-7 The Message That precious memory triggers another: your honest faith—and what a rich faith it is, handed down from your grandmother Lois to your mother Eunice, and now to you! And the special gift of ministry you received when I laid hands on you and prayed—keep that ablaze! God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.

How are you my brothers and sisters? The sun is shining somewhere. As I write and reflect, it is rainy and cool. Rain cleanses and purifies. Rain causes growth and renewal. Rain is calming and peaceful especially when it is falling gently! Though many lament when it rains, it is all about God giving His creation what it needs when it needs it. I invite you to sit and listen to the rain and let it move you to a place of peace! Our world continues to be full of turmoil, but God wants us to live at peace with everyone.

Let us be in peace and fellowship with God. Let us be in harmony with each other. When you’re out of harmony with others, you are out of harmony with God. When in conflict with other people, you can’t be clear in your thoughts and actions. “A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” Proverbs 19:11 NIV

I don’t like conflict! I believe most people do not! Conflict drains your energy! When issues go unresolved, you can’t find peace and happiness. You can’t grow and prosper. You cannot help others. Is this why we have seen an increase in violence and hate against others? No more, no more! It must stop. You can’t be happy and in conflict at the same time. Know that the issues and conflicts do not go away on their own! It does not go away like Puff the Magic Dragon! I’m showing my age here! LOL When conflict comes in through the front door, happiness goes out the back door. You become lost in the wilderness. Don’t ignore, deny, or push the conflict away. Deal with it head on! You don’t want to be lost! I live a life which my glass runs over! I choose to be happy and at peace. I encourage you to do so!!! It feels good in my soul!

Let us be intentional in all we do! Take the initiative and be the peacemaker. It takes courageous people to resolve conflict. Conflict can be a good thing when resolved openly and honestly. Face issues head on! Love not to hate! Let God’s Spirit fill your life! Allow yourself to be filled with power, love, and self-discipline. God’s love will overcome fear and give you the courage to resolve conflict and brings healing.

As you know this is #StuffValSaid, but what do you say? Where do you find the courage to face and resolve conflict? Are you willing to turn the other cheek? Are you standing in power, love and self-discipline?

Live, laugh, and love! As said in Swahili, Ashay…” Be with us!!!” I love and honor you!!! Ubuntu “I am, because you are.”