Conflict is nothing new. Family division and strife is as old as humanity itself. One only has to turn to the pages of Genesis 3 and 4 to read of conflict among the first family in Eden. After Adam and Eve passed the blame for their sin, then their two sons had a division that led to humanity's first homicide. It all started with comparison and envy. "For where envying and strife is there is confusion and every evil work." (James 3:16) 

While we have great control over how and why arguments start, we have little control as to how they end. Anger escalates quickly and can lead to physical violence. It happens in the form of domestic violence every day. We live in a time where it can be over anything from sports to politics. It plays out over social media daily where people will type inviting comments that break even close friendships. Somehow, we have lost the ability to sit down and discuss honest disagreements without anger and hate. Jesus said, "that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgement." (Matthew 5:22)

Therefore, it is wise for us all to think and pray before we speak. Where we know anger is building within us we need the filling of the Holy Spirit more than ever. We can speak words in a few seconds that can provoke anger, damage relationships and do irrevocable harm. (Proverbs 18:21)

How can we be surrounded by turmoil and hate without being consumed by it? We must have an upward look! Realize that God alone can solve problems and change people that we cannot. "For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God." (James 1:20)


                                                                                                                - Pastor Carpenter