Make every effort to live in peace with all men.
—Hebrews 12:14
Where there are people there will be conflicts: in community, workplace, family, even church. (There must be a scripture somewhere that says, “Where two or three are gathered in my name there is going to be an argument.”)
When differences surface, there is an inclination to suspect the rival has malicious motives.
A good ground rule for nurturing healthy relationships is to always assume good intentions. When someone’s words are biting or their behavior combative, refuse to judge their motives; when their viewpoint conflicts with yours, refrain from labeling them.
Is the assumption of good intentions always accurate? No. Sometimes a person’s intensions are venomous. But by assuming the best you will sidestep being a cause or contributor to conflict.
You don’t have to attend every
argument you’re invited to.