Last Sunday, we had a good reminder about avoiding trip hazards amid conflict. If you didn’t get to participate on Sunday, you can watch or listen by clicking here. When you find yourself getting into an argument, be aware of the potential slip, trip, or fall that could occur because of these threatening situations. Re-read our passage from Sunday in Ephesians 4.

Be on guard against:

• Assumptions – We all make snap judgments about other people which can get us in trouble. When in doubt, check it out. Don’t assume you know what people are thinking. Take the time to ask and listen. Remember to be patient in your communication.
• Anger—Be very aware of your internal emotions. Your anger may be justified, but it rarely helps you listen to others and speak in ways that can be heard. Anger can shut down our ability to reason well and care about the other person.
• Dehumanizing the other person—At times, we forget that we are talking to a human being created in God's image and loved by God. When you find yourself caught up in winning the argument, slow down because you are about to trip.
• Weaponizing our words – Words are powerful, and we need to use them to build one another up. Listen to yourself, are you using words that explain plainly what you feel and think or are you using words that inflame, confuse, and demean the other person? Remember, respectful language is key to considerate communication.

Be aware of the trip hazards so your conflicts don’t come crashing down!

Grace and Peace,

Drew