In life, conversations are constant and conflict is natural.
But here’s the thing about conflict.
It can quickly dissolve into a battle of egos.
Those involved cease discussing the original topic at hand and are soon arguing like they’re fighting for their lives.
Because when ego enters the fight, identity is on the line.
In an ego battle, our self-worth is what we’re fighting for.
This means that if we lose or if we’re wrong, we have nothing left.
It’s exhausting, unhealthy, and an unbearable way to live.
And for Christians, it doesn’t have to be our reality.
Identity received
How can this be?
If the core of our identity—the bedrock of our personhood—is that we are God’s beloved then we don’t have to fight for our self-worth.
Why?
Being God’s beloved isn’t something we earn, it’s an identity we receive.
When we receive the Father’s love poured out on us through Jesus Christ and have our adoption sealed by the Holy spirit, we are fundamentally changed. We’re operating from a new center.
Our ego, our pride, our petty desires and insecurities, can be laid aside.
We can fight for what is just, share our opinions, and enter conflict with humility because it’s okay if we’re wrong.
Our self-worth isn’t tied to being right anymore, it’s tied to being God’s beloved.
The choice before us
This is why we must habitually be reminded of and dwell in this reality.
Take time daily to soak ourselves in this truth.
Every time we find ourselves in conflict with another human, we have a choice. We can choose to bring our ego or our belovedness.
Only one of these options contains the possiblity of lasting peace.
For you.
And for those in the conflict you’re in.
Choose wisely.