God expects leaders to resolve conflicts within their organization well. But how can they best achieve that?
A good starting point for answering this question is Proverbs 15:1-7. These are verses that are often quoted but rarely lived out in practice. Sometimes only the leader has the freedom to let his anger run free, and sooner or later that behavior will catch up with him and pursue him. Leaders must create an environment in which people feel safe and can talk to one another. If the leader creates this space, he will be able to resolve conflicts well. The following thoughts help with this:
- Address conflicts calmly and composedly, and people will follow your example (Proverbs 15:1)
- Speak wisely and make sure all information is accurate and corresponds to the truth (Proverbs 15:2)
- Keep in mind that God is the judge and will enforce justice (Proverbs 15:3)
- Speak healing words that love people and solve the problem (Proverbs 15:4)
- Accept counsel, remain teachable, and give yourself the freedom to apologize (Proverbs 15:5)
- Support everyone who comes to you, even when you sometimes disagree (Proverbs 15:6)
- Speak good counsel and create understanding (Proverbs 15:7)
Proverbs 15:1-7
1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.
4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.
5 A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.
7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.
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