“Trust me, there are times when something that seems like a loss is, in reality, more of a deliverance. If this happens, be big enough to realize that God may choose to bless the individual or group you chose to depart from. I love these words from the late Dr. Bob Cook: ‘God reserves the right to use people who disagree with me.’ “- Charles Swindoll
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”- Philippians 2:3-4 (NLT)
Charles Swindoll concludes Chapter 6 of What If . . . God Has Other Plans? as he offers four guidelines to help you decide when someone needs a second chance.
1. Work hard at seeing the other point of view. When you possess deep convictions, like Paul and Barnabas, it’s very hard to consider the other person’s point of view. However, Pastor Swindoll stresses, only comes when you work hard to see the situation through the other person’s eyes. Furthermore, you’ll need great grace, patience, objectivity, and the willingness to swallow your pride. In the process, you come to realize that your opinion may not provide the right answer for this situation.
2. Seek a wise compromise. When you consider whether you should offer someone a second chance, Pastor Swindoll urges you to think creatively. As a result, if both sides have excellent support, seek a wise compromise.
3. Care enough to work through conflict rather than stomping out. To use today’s terms, don’t mash the ‘end call’ button on your cell phone or storm out in a huff. And forget sending that flaming text. Because such responses never help resolve the situation. Rather, such responses only make the matter worse. Therefore, do your best to achieve a peaceful resolution. Yet, at times you must allow consequences to run their course. At such times, it isn’t wise to offer a second chance.
4. Agree to disagree without becoming disagreeable. Above all, remember that forgiveness provides the background in resolving conflict. Also, forgiveness is necessary, whether you reconcile or not. So, refuse to drag a grudge around with you. And, don’t go to your grave hating someone.
Today’s question: When have you felt that deliverance seemed more like a loss? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “A broken instrument makes matchless music”
