Straight From The Heart

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GLORIFY GOD

Instead of focusing on our own d.e.s.i.r.es or dwelling on what others may do, we will rejoice in the Lord and bring him praise by depending on his forgiveness, wisdom, power and love, as we seek to faithfully obey his commands and maintain a loving, merciful and forgiving attitude (Ps 37:1-6; Mark 11:25; John 14:15; Rom 12:17-21; 1 Cor. 10:31; Phil 4:2-9; Col 3:1-4; James 3:17-18; 4:1-3; 1 Peter 2:1-2).

GET THE LOG OUT OF YOUR EYE

Instead of blaming others for a conflict or resisting correction, we will trust in God's mercy and take responsibility fo our own contribution to conflicts -- confessing our sins to those we have wronged, asking God to help us change any attitudes and habits that lead to conflict and seeking to repair any harm we have caused (Prov. 28:13; Matt 7:3-5; Luke 19:8; Col 3:5-14; 1 John 1:8-9).

GENTLY RESTORE

Instead of pretending that conflict doesn't exist or talking about others behind their backs, we will overlook minor offenses or we will talk personally and graciously with those whom offenses seem too serious to overlook, seeking to restore them rather than condemn them. When a conflict with a Christian brother or sister cannot be resolved in private, we will ask others in the body of Christ to help us settle the matter in a biblical manner (Prov 19:11; Matt 18:15-20; 1 Cor 6:1-8; Gal 6:1-2, Eph 4:28; 2 Tim 2:24-26; James 5:9).

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