Conflicts are part of all relationships. We shouldn’t shy away from conflict. Rather, we need to learn it’s value and how to navigate conflict for the overall good of a team. These 10 solutions can assist in dousing done tension that may arise from conflicts.

1. Understand the battle. Be clear with the real source of the conflict. Many times we address symptoms, but we really aren’t even addressing the real issue. That makes the conflict linger longer. (Proverbs 4:23)

2. Find the right time and place. When emotions are high, it's not good timing for dealing with conflict. Also personal conflict should not be handled in public.

3. Examine yourself first. Sometimes the issue is personal to you, and you are only blaming others for your problem. Look carefully at the “plank” in your own eye (Matthew 7:3–5).



4. Consider the other side of the conflict. Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and consider their viewpoint (Philippians 2:4). Why would they think the way they think?..... What if I were in their situation—how would I respond?......

5. Do not overreact to the issue or overload on emotion. When emotions are exaggerated it disarms the other party and a healthy resolution is harder to attain. Control yourself and avoid phrases like “You always…” (Proverbs 25:28).

6. Do not dance around, sugarcoat the issue or disguise it in false kindness. Sometimes we fail to address the conflict because we are afraid of the other person or we are afraid of hurting feelings. Be kind, but make sure you are clear, direct and helpful (Proverbs 27:5).

7. Do not allow the small disagreements to become big disagreements. The way to keep huge conflict from occurring is by confronting the small conflict along the way.

8. Be firm, but gentle. Learn the balance between the two. (Consider Jesus’ approach in John 4.)

9. Work towards a solution. Everyone wants a win-win situation, and sometimes that’s possible. Getting to the right decision should always be the ultimate goal (Proverbs 21:3).

10.Grant forgiveness easily. Healthy conflict makes relationships stronger, and to get there we must not hold a grudge or seek revenge. (Ephesians 4:32).



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