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"Getting to the Heart of Conflict,
Part 1"
In order to renounce bad habits and decide to
respond to conflict in a gracious and constructive way, we need to
understand why we react to conflict the way we do.
Conflicts arise from unmet desires in our hearts.
(Luke 12:13-15; Matthew 15:19; James 4:1-3)
The Progression of an Idol
I desire. Conflict always begins with some kind of desire.
(Psalm 73:25; James 1:2-4; I John 4:19-21; Luke 6:27-28; Romans
8:28-29)
I demand. Unmet desires have the potential of working
themselves deeper and deeper into our hearts when desire becomes
something we feel we need or deserve.
(Luke 12:29; I Corinthians 4:5; Psalm 119:133; Ephesians 5:5; Isaiah
42:17; Matthew 6:24; Luke 12:4-5; Philippians 3:19; 2 Kings 17:41;
Psalm 103:8; Galatians 6:1)
I judge. Another sign of idolatry is the inclination to
judge other people.
(James 3:15 and 4:7; James 3:15; 4:7; Matthew 7:1-5; 18:15;
Galatians 6:1)
I punish. Whether deliberately or unconsciously, we will
find ways to hurt or punish people so they will give in to our
desires.
(Proverbs 27:15; James 4:1-3)
Inflicting pain on others is one of the surest signs that an idol
is ruling our hearts!
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