James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

As a leader at any level, you will be required from time to time to respond and lead through conflict. It is inevitable and a part of leadership and life itself. When conflict arises, our natural inclination is to react or even respond in anger. The Godly way is to remain calm and respond as Christ would. We should turn to the Lord in prayer and seek His wisdom in what to do. Wisdom is seeing life from God’s point of view and acting accordingly. It may well be an opportunity to show integrity, witness for Christ and an example for others to follow. There are three ways we can navigate through conflicts in a Godly manner:

First, is a quiet spirit which is counter to a quick reaction and defensive attitude. Let the Holy Spirit guide your thoughts, attitudes and actions according to God’s Word. He promises to give us His peace, guidance and direction to handle any conflict or toxic person. There are times when we just need to walk away and give it to the Lord. I recently read that life is like riding an elevator. On the way up, you have to make certain stops to let off some people. The second way to handle conflict is through spiritual discernment because God totally understands the conflict and can also help us to understand. He will guide us to understand both the conflict and the people involved and move forward in what we should do. God is clearly our best counselor who sees all and knows all. Third, we must ask God for wisdom to handle the conflict in a way that will honor him and impact his kingdom. We need to seek wisdom in our attitudes, words and actions. This is leadership at its best, and God will provide the proper time to speak, respond or even remain silent. We are representing Christ in every conflict in life. Is this what your leadership reflects and lives out?