October has been quite a ride, filled with conflicts upon conflicts. The hot and humid weather in Singapore, coupled with the recent haze, hasn’t exactly been uplifting my mood. But what really threw me for a loop was getting caught up in the drama of the Israel-Hammas war. And let me tell you, it wasn’t just something I saw on the news. I found myself in my own little battle with a secular friend who seemed to take every opportunity to mock my newfound faith. It’s crazy how these personal struggles reflect the conflicts we face within our church communities. It’s unbelievable how all of this connects back to the morals we hold dear in our faith and the sneaky temptations of the devil.
A Real-Life Global Divide:
The Israel-Hammas war opened my eyes to the deep-rooted tensions and complexities that can divide people all around the world. It’s not just about religion; it’s a multifaceted issue involving politics and history. It’s truly heartbreaking and messy. Watching the news and witnessing the destruction caused by the war made me realize that in times like these, unity and understanding become even more vital.
Testing My Faith and Friendship:
Let me share a bit about my personal drama. My secular friend started making sarcastic jokes and posting on social media, mocking my religious convictions. It was not only hurtful on a personal level but also felt like a lack of respect. In an attempt to make them realize their behavior was wrong, I responded with a comment. However, instead of resolving anything, it only made our friendship sour. We ended up in a cold war. I felt miserable and initially wanted revenge, but I soon realized it was futile. That’s when I turned to our Lord Jesus Christ in prayer, seeking guidance and healing.
Drama on a Smaller Scale:
Conflicts within church communities resemble the ones we face in our personal lives. Though we share the same faith, it doesn’t mean we always agree on how to express it or serve the community. Clashes of ideas and self-interest can lead to significant divisions and chaos. However, our faith provides us with a roadmap for navigating these stormy waters. It teaches us to love, forgive, and come together.
Our North Star in Conflict:
When tough times arise, our faith offers guiding principles. Jesus Christ taught us to love and pray for not only our friends but also our enemies. He emphasized forgiveness and encouraged us to eventually seek reconciliation . These teachings serve as our guiding light, especially during conflicts. As children of God, we are called to treat others with kindness, compassion, and humility, even when they challenge us. Embracing these morals allows us to find healing and unity, both personally and within our church communities.
The Temptations of the Devil: Stirring the Pot:
In my personal conflict with my secular friend, I couldn’t help but notice the devil’s hand at play. The sneaky devil tempts us with pride, anger, selfishness, and resentment, hoping to create chaos and division. It’s crucial for us to resist these temptations and turn to prayer and strength. As children of God, we must recognize these tricks and strive for unity and understanding within our communities.
The story of the Israel-Hammas war and my personal conflict with my friend has taught me valuable lessons. We have witnessed how conflicts can divide people globally, impact personal relationships, and even permeate church communities. But we must not forget the teachings of love, forgiveness, and unity that our faith holds dear. By embracing these principles, we can overcome personal and communal conflicts, resist the devil’s temptations, and create a stronger and more compassionate community. My dear brothers and sisters let’s spread love and not hate. Stay strong in our faith and pray for those who have lost their lives, homes, and loved ones in this war. May peace be with you.
Written by Kit Lee