Seventh-Day Adventist Devotional For Children: “Conflict Resolution”

*DAILY BREAD: A DEVOTIONAL FOR THE CHILDREN*

Eastern Nigeria Union Conference Children’s Ministries Department.

*THEME: I WILL GO*

Friday, 21 January, 2022.

*Topic: Conflict Resolution*

“ _So Abram said to Lot, “Let’s not have any quarreling between you and me, or between your herders and mine, for we are close relatives” (Genesis 13:8)_

Abram the servant of God, when he was called by God to leave his own country to a place he never knew; where God promised to bless him. He went with his nephew Lot. God blessed Abram not only in Silver and Gold, but also in livestock. The blessings were also extended to Lot.
As Abram and Lot increased in wealth, they faced potential conflict and Abram took the initiative in settling the dispute by giving Lot first choice, even though Abram being older, had the right to choose first. But he showed a willingness to risk being cheated. Abram’s example shows us how to respond to similar family challenges.
Know that rivalries, arguments, and disagreements among believers can be destructive in the following ways:
• They damage goodwill, trust and peace which are the foundations of good human relations.
• They hamper progress toward important goals.
• They make us self-centered rather than love-centered.
Jesus understood how destructive arguments among brothers and sisters could be, in his final prayer before being betrayed and arrested, Jesus asked God that his followers be one (John 17:21).
As a child of God, you need to try to live in peace with everyone. Even when others are not interested in peace making, you should take the first step in resolving conflict; let others have first choice even if that means not getting what you want and ensure you put family peace above personal desires.

*Song*
Peace perfect peace, in this dark world of sin?
The blood of Jesus whispers peace within.
Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed?
To do the will of Jesus: this is rest.
Peace, perfect peace, with loved ones far away?
In Jesus’ keeping we are safe, and they.
Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown?
Jesus we know, and He is on the throne.

*Prayer*
Dear Lord in heaven, it is my desire to live in peace with everyone; please give me the grace. Help me to take the step in resolving every conflict in my relationships and let peace be restored in Jesus name, Amen