Saturday, January 15, 2011

WeekEndswithBob Coy: "Conflict Resolution"

Articles by Active Word On-the-Go Devotional

Pastor Bob Coy photo
Conflict Resolution
Pastor Bob Coy
Psalm Chapter 7 is attributed to David, a man who endured more than his fair share of conflict. David’s very own son, Absalom, as well as Saul, Goliath, Shimei, and at least 200 Philistines were all less than thrilled to see him (1 Samuel 18:27). For David, conflict was a way of life, and so we would be wise to pay attention when he says something about it. Notice what he says here concerning those who persecuted him and the conflict they brought: He implores the Lord to come and save him. He doesn’t glory in the fact that he was a mighty man of valor, one of the world’s greatest warriors, or someone who could take care of himself. No, first and foremost he cries out to God to be his help and to come between him and his enemies. When it comes to conflict in our own lives, we need to do as David did and put the Lord between us and those causing the conflict. In doing so, we’re reminded that those who oppose us will have to go through God in order to get to us. With that understanding, we’re able to handle everything that comes our way. It may not alter their actions; God might actually use what they’re doing to teach us, or it may be His will for us to flee the situation. But our confidence at the end of the day is in knowing God lies between our antagonists and us. 

When He [Jesus] was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously… (1 Peter 2:23 NKJV) 

Father, helps us to not focus on our persecutors but to put You between us and them; help us to entrust our defense to You.

What does this passage reveal to me about God?
What does this passage reveal to me about myself? 
Based on this, what changes do I need to make? 
What is my prayer for today?

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