Do you dread conflict? Most of us do. It’s tough to handle disagreement without letting things get out of hand or hurting relationships along the way. But what if we could see conflict as an opportunity rather than something to avoid? When managed with wisdom, conflict can be a pathway to personal growth and deeper relationships, rather than a roadblock.

In relationships, conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it matters. As Paul writes in Ephesians, we’re called to “be humble and gentle,” making room for each other’s faults. This means learning to extend grace instead of holding grudges. Conflict can be a moment to grow in patience, love, and grace, turning those tense interactions into opportunities for maturity and connection. In practice, this looks like taking a deep breath, remembering the other person isn’t our opposition, and choosing kindness even when emotions run high.

There’s also a call to value reconciliation over simply “resolving” issues. Many times, our disagreements won’t end with complete agreement, and that’s okay. What’s more important is to maintain a peaceful, loving relationship even when we can’t fully see eye to eye. This approach shows we care about the person more than about being “right.” Abraham’s example with his nephew Lot beautifully illustrates this: he chose to prioritize peace over claiming his rights, trusting God to look after the rest. His humility and willingness to yield showed deep trust and a desire for unity.

Handling conflict in a way that honors God takes intentional effort. Next time you’re faced with a disagreement, take a moment to ask: How can I grow through this? Can I choose peace, humility, and grace even when it’s challenging? Let’s use conflict not as a stumbling block but as a bridge toward stronger, more meaningful relationships.