Conflict is an inevitable part of life. Whether it’s in our families, workplaces, or churches, disagreements and misunderstandings will arise. How we handle conflict, however, can make the difference between strengthening relationships or damaging them. Thankfully, Ken Sande’s Peacemaker Principles offer a Christ-centered approach to conflict resolution through the 4 G’s: Glorify God, Get the Log Out of Your Eye, Gently Restore, and Go and Be Reconciled.
1. Glorify God
When we face conflict, our first instinct is often to focus on our own frustrations or “winning” the argument. The first G calls us to shift our perspective: How can we honor God in this situation? By approaching conflict with a desire to reflect Christ’s love and truth, we invite Him into the process and keep our hearts grounded in grace. Scripture reminds us, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
2. Get the Log Out of Your Eye
Before addressing someone else’s actions, we need to examine our own hearts. Jesus tells us to remove the plank from our own eye before pointing out the speck in someone else’s (Matthew 7:3-5). This step requires humility and self-reflection. What role did I play in this conflict? How might my actions or attitudes have contributed? Owning our part is crucial for building trust and moving forward.
3. Gently Restore
When confronting others, it’s easy to let frustration lead to harshness or blame. Instead, we’re called to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). The goal isn’t to “win” but to restore the relationship. This requires a balance of honesty and kindness, addressing the issue directly while affirming the other person’s value and dignity.
4. Go and Be Reconciled
The ultimate goal of conflict resolution is reconciliation. Jesus emphasizes this in Matthew 5:23-24, urging us to seek peace with others before bringing our offerings to God. Reconciliation involves genuine forgiveness and a willingness to rebuild trust. While this isn’t always easy, it reflects the heart of the Gospel: God reconciling us to Himself through Christ and calling us to extend the same grace to others.
Why the 4 G’s Matter
The 4 G’s provide a biblical framework for navigating conflict in a way that strengthens relationships and glorifies God. They remind us that conflict isn’t something to avoid or fear—it’s an opportunity to grow in grace, humility, and Christlikeness.
As we commit to these principles, we’ll find that God not only helps us resolve conflicts but also transforms us into peacemakers, reflecting His love and bringing His kingdom to our relationships.
What step are you being called to take today? Whether it’s owning your part, speaking truth with love, or seeking reconciliation, trust that God will equip you to walk this path with His wisdom and grace.
Comments