Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 4:29-32

Prayer Points

Pray for a situation of conflict that you know about – or even are involved in – that God will turn it around. Pray that grace and truth will replace accusation, fear and defensiveness.

Pray that people will recognise how important it is to protect and promote the institution of lifelong, faithful, loving marriage.

Pray for two or three married couples you know that their relationships would be strengthened and enriched.

Pray for the homeless who are often the victims of family breakdown

     DAY 15 : CONFLICT

Family harmony provides a sense of belonging and security

unlike many other relationships. When conflict arises it

threatens that security.

Family breakdown is the root of so many of society’s problems.

Words and actions cause lasting damage and the anguish

of broken relationships often results in violence. The next

generation carries the scars and may continue the same process

with their partners. There are not only strained relationships

between couples but in all aspects of life. Relationships between

colleagues, communities and nations are in tension.

The Bible is clear about how to maintain healthy relationships

and restore broken ones. We need to cultivate an attitude of

acceptance and service choosing to let love and forgiveness

govern our relationships. It is not easy, but we should get rid

of negative emotions and attitudes. Paul says to get rid of all

bitterness, rage and anger and he encourages us to watch what

we say, speaking only what is helpful for building people up.

The Bible emphasises the amazing mercy of God. Restoration

is possible as we discover that God is a God of fresh starts.

We discover our own identity, secure in Christ. Knowing who

we are – sons and daughters of the King of Kings – is the best

foundation on which to build a good relationship with a partner

or parent, friend or colleague. We can demonstrate Christ-like

attitudes: co-operation instead of competition, affirmation

instead of criticism, and love instead of hate

(Ephesians 4:20-32).

Blessed are the peacemakers.

Pray

*    Pray for your ‘big issue’

*    Pray for your ‘three friends’

*    Pray for a new wave of revival.