Do you know how to mediate a dispute?
Proverbs 20:3--This proverb seems to conflict with Proverbs 26:17--"Like one who takes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who meddles in a quarrel not his own."
But, actually, the latter gives us more insights into how we could resolve a dispute. The key word is "meddles."
Involving ourselves, uninvited, to a conflict or quarrel is generally asking for trouble. We may think we see what the issues are, and perhaps a way to resolve the dispute, but we run the risk of the divided parties uniting to come against us.
From a legal standpoint, there are two types of resolutions: one requires a legal representative (judge, jury, or arbitrator) who makes the final decision; the second is more consensual and may have an agreed upon mediator who helps the parties come to an amicable decision.
If we are elected to mediate, we hold an awesome responsibility and need to be fair and impartial.
Someone could be right but their behavior is out of line. Those behaviors can mask the real issues. Helping both parties separate facts from emotions, truth from reactions is an honorable thing.
Providing a safe environment for people to be heard without disrespecting others is an art.
Helping them evaluate and come to their own solutions goes a long way in developing stable families, congregations, communities, and staff.
To be that type of mediator, one must be wise. They must be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. They must operate well in discernment and understanding. They can't jump to conclusions, especially when strong emotions and bad behaviors are involved.
What an honor it would be to see a dispute resolved amicably. To know we helped to facilitate a discussion where the parties involved could see each other's side and find the best way to walk away respectfully.
What if we are the one in dispute with another? Applying these principles to our discourse works as well. Being wise. Seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance. Not jumping to conclusions. Listening to what is being said--even if it is in anger. Finding the resolution with integrity and patience is an honorable thing.
May we learn how to resolve a dispute with GOD's wisdom, my friends.
Proverbs 20:3--It is honor for one to resolve a dispute, yet every fool quarrels. Tree of Life Bible Society Tree of Life Version - TLV #tlvbible#tlvproverbs
[WATCH Tree of Life Bible Society's CEO, Daniah Greenberg and me, Terri Gillespie dig a little deeper with this proverb. Check us out at Tree of Life Bible Society, Monday through Friday, LIVE at 8:30am EST. Watch previous episodes there as well. Stay wise, my friends!]
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