Do you have any issues with other people? Does anyone rub you the wrong way? Say things behind your back? Hurt you? Living our daily lives means inevitable conflicts with others. When those matters arise, and they will, Jesus gives us specific instructions.

Matthew 18:15
If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.

Before you text, email, or call someone else, go to the person who wronged you and address the issue directly with that person. Jesus instructs us to do this: “Go and tell him [the person who sinned against you] his fault, between you and him alone.”

Think about what would happen if we followed God’s instruction. Rumors would stop flying. Bitterness would melt away. Grudges would be gone. Resentment would recede.  Anger would be assuaged. Jealousy would be diminished. Just obeying this one verse would change our lives! That’s the power of obeying God’s inerrant Word!

Let’s talk to God about this instruction.

Father, when I am hurt by others, I want to lash out and hit back. I want to share with friends how I have been maligned and harmed. Please help me slow down and talk to you before talking to anyone else. Help me hear from you the direction I should take. In Jesus’ name. Amen.