REACHING ACROSS – WEEK 4

Mike Kurtz

Getting Along with One Another
When two or more people come together long enough, there will be inevitable conflict – differing opinions, different ideas, different ways to do thing. Sometimes you don’t even need a second person to have conflict! How do we work through conflict? As we work through these devotions this week, consider a conflict you are currently experiencing or perhaps one you might foresee in the days ahead. Then consider applying some of these devotions to your situation. In the end, it is my hope that you see God in the midst of the struggle, and all parties involved will grow through it.
–Pastor Mike

Small Group Questions
Week of October 27, 2008

Opening: How have you seen God work this week?

  1. “It takes two to tangle.” Have you ever been in a conflict when you realized part way through your partial guilt in it? How did owning up to your part help repair the conflict?
  2. From Matthew 5:23-26, it is clear that our relationship with God is connected to our relationship with others. If we know someone is holding something against us, God wants us to address that issue with the other person. How have you seen the effects on your worship of God knowing that you have offended someone without dealing with it? Why is it so hard to apologize?
  3. Conflict is more easily resolved when we recognize we are on the same team in Christ. Your opponent is not your co-worker; your opponent is out there (Satan) trying to divert attention away from him and the progress of the gospel. How have you seen this truth work in a conflict in your life? Has Satan ever gotten the best of a conflict in your life? If so, share about it. How can you affirm your “teammate” that you aren’t trying to work against him or her? (Note: This applies to marriages as well.)
  4. In Phil. 1:15-21, we read about Paul’s ability to rejoice in a potentially conflicted situation. He was able to rejoice because he could see the good in it. Considering the good in a conflict (no matter how little there may seem to be) is a helpful way to stay constructive and hopeful. How can one see past the difficulty and negativity of a conflict to see the silver lining? Is this something we can choose to do? If you are going through a conflict, take some time to think about how God is present in the situation. Share with others to help you see past the situation and, more importantly, see past the shortcomings of others.

As you go into your prayer time, consider the following questions:

  • How have you struggled this week?
  • How can the others in the group help you?
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