Conflict among Christians. How to find peace.

Philipians 4
2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. 4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

8Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

This is a about a huge conflict between two Christians.  Paul wants them to resolve it...to be of the same mind as the Lord. 

What peace these verses give me today.  We are in the middle of a conflict amongst some Christians.  I keep stressing over it,  and then repeatedly give it back to God when I realize I am worrying about it instead of trusting Him. 

Now for the good news.  I don't know how the other party is feeling, because they are not talking to us. However,  I have come to realize that because of this rift in our relationship with these people I have more time to focus on Bible study,  my husband,  my neighbors,  my other family members, my extended family. So, because of a rift,  there are areas in my life that are better than before.  Plus I am learning to keep my focus more on God and learning to pray constantly. I think that is so cool. This demonstrates how God can take any situation and make something great out of it! 

I know this situation will not resolve itself anytime soon,  but I also trust God will take care of it eventually...I do not need to be the one to do it!  What a relief! 

Here is a checklist from shereadstruth.comb that helps me focus on what to do in worrisome situations: 

1.  Rejoice in the Lord (v. 4). Have I reminded myself of the joy in knowing Christ and that He, no matter the conflict I’m in, has already triumphed over it all? Though it may be the last thing I feel like doing, I am called to rejoice!

2.  Practice grace and patience (v. 5). Am I being gracious and patient as I wait for the Lord and HIS resolution?

3. Pray steadfastly (v. 6). Have I poured out my heart to God, asking for His help and showing gratitude that He hears me and is already working on my behalf

4.  Dwell on Him, not the problem (v. 8). Am I focusing on God’s Word and His character— His beauty, compassion, righteousness, grace— instead of on the conflict?

5.  Obey Him (v. 9). Am I letting God be God, regardless of the conflict, holding onto my faith and obediently following His will? Or am I abandoning His truth and being driven to sin?

Thank you,  Father,  for reminding us what we need to do to have your peace.  Amen