Seasoned Words #4 - How to do it...
After laying a doctrinal foundation for eleven chapters, Paul now reminds the church in Rome to live out their faith practically. Part of this practical living is peacemaking, de-escalation and conflict resolution. Let's see what he says:| Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans12:17-21) |
How do we do all the things Paul is talking about?
How do we live in peace with everyone? How do we de-escalate anger, conflict and hostility?"
I think it takes three important steps:
- PAUSE
Slow down. Don't match the emotional temperature.
Bring great calm into tense situations. Make sure you're not taking things personally and not acting out of emotion. - DISCERN
What is actually happening?
What's beneath these words?
Where is emotion and anger blinding people?
Where is there commonality? - SEASON
Start with humility.
Speak words that fit the moment.
Make people feel heard and taken seriously.
Make sure that what you are aiming for is to reveal grace and not your cleverness.
And, at the end of the day remember what the stakes are:
We are not trying to win arguments but to win people's hearts.
----------------------------------
EmmDevs will be pausing for two weeks...
