In his book, “Making Things Happen”, Bob Russell relates the following story about how he and his wife handled a disagreement:

“When my wife and I were first married, she wanted to put up the Christmas tree two weeks before Christmas. To me that was sacrilegious, because in my home you put up the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve! We argued about that and finally we came to a compromise. She put up the Christmas tree two weeks in advance by herself! Compromise is not a matter of weakness. It is a matter of wisdom; a matter of tolerance.” (p.72).

Conflict is not pleasant, but it can’t be avoided. Whenever people have differing opinions, there is the chance for disagreement. It happens among friends, in families and in the church. Whenever conflict arises, we shouldn’t try to ignore it. Let’s deal with it quickly, before the situation escalates. Let’s try to remain humble and respect the wishes of others.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”—Philippians 2:3-4.

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”—Psalm 133:1.