…   from Jochebedin the Valley

DEALING WITH STRIFEIt is not always easy reconciling our differences, but  thanks to God we have a prescribed way for trying; One which I am most thankful for.

Recently two of my sisters in Christ were having quite a lot of disagreements. Each having reached their boiling point, finally decided to confront one another. “If thy brother shall trespass  against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone:” Mt.18:15a.

However, being that they had waited a long time to address the matters it only seemed to make matters worse.  They each then took their issues to another sister; one of which was I , and the other a very close sister of mine.   

We both listened to the two and offered advice as best we could; neither of us violating the confidence of the two with each other.  But there came a point where we became quite concerned for the two, and decided we needed to intervene.

”But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouths of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” Mt 18:16.

We decided to have a mediation, and to our surprise both women agreed.  Before meeting up with the two,  my sister and I met up to pray, asking for the Lord to work through us.  When we met up with the two we prayed again, all together. The mediation went much better than expected, a lot was brought into light and healthy boundaries were established. In closing we as a group prayed together again, thanking God for helping us come to each other in love.

Later the sister and I who helped facilitate the mediation met up again, just the two of us to pray again.  We asked for the Lord to continue to work peace in their lives, and thanked Him for His help and what He just accomplished through us. 

Since the mediation the two are sticking to and respecting their boundaries. Day by day there is more and more peace in their relationship.  Not that it is perfect, but it is far from what it was.  When we come together in prayer seeking the will of God., His will, will be done.  “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them  Mat. 18:20.

We are called to, “be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ sake hath forgiven you.” Eph. 4:32.

So in all areas of life seek peace and you will surely find it.