Monday, September 14, 2026

Bible in a Year Reading Plan: 1 Samuel 16-20 | 1 Timothy 1

Why do relationships almost never turn out as we thought they would? 

It’s probably because when something important to “me” collides with something important to “you,” it creates conflict. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like that! 

The thing is, conflict gives us an opportunity to see something in ourselves that we haven’t seen before. If we’re honest, it reveals how much we want our own way. We want to be right, and even worse, we want “you” to be wrong. 

However, as Jesus followers, our goal is to move toward mutual understanding, not to win the argument. So we have to get curious, yes, about what’s happening between us, but even more, about what’s happening in us. Ask ourselves, “What is God trying to show me about myself?” 

I think Jesus must have had those thoughts when he met his disciples on the beach after his resurrection. They had returned to their previous jobs, not waiting for the Holy Spirit, and not recalling what Jesus had repeatedly taught them during their time together. 

But Jesus loved them. Before addressing the hurt and conflict, he chose connection. Instead of immediately confronting their behavior, he assured them of his love. 

John 21:12-13
“Now come and have some breakfast!” Jesus said. None of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Then Jesus served them the bread and the fish. 

Jesus made them breakfast, serving them first. Then he started asking tough questions, specifically of Peter, who had denied knowing him three times. 

Jesus repeatedly asked Peter, “Do you love me?” 

On crucifixion day, things did not turn out as Peter had expected (Matthew 26:31-35). Not only did Peter fail Jesus, but he failed himself (Matthew 26:69-75). Jesus had every reason to deny Peter and pull away, but he didn’t. He moved toward Peter with forgiveness and love, just like he moves toward us. 

Jesus knows that we can hear hard things better when we know we are secure in his love. 

Because of this, we can be honest about the things that conflict reveals. Like the times when we’ve put our needs and expectations above the opportunity to seek common ground and understanding. 

The beauty of the truth is that, even in our moments of failure, Jesus’ love moves toward us, draws us back, and reminds us that grace is always within reach.

Question:  
How do you respond to conflict? Are you curious about the why? 

Who have you been fighting with that God is asking you to fight for?

Next Steps: 
Paul says in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” That’s a tall order, but one that we actually have control over. We can do what God calls us to do.

When you find yourself in the middle of conflict this week, follow Jesus’ example and be a peacemaker.

Prayer: 
Lord God, help me to want what you want more than what I want. You are my Lord. You are the only one who gets to tell me what to do. You tell me to love. Let me be your servant today to those you love. Give me the desire to find common ground and the courage to move first. Help me want your peace more than I want to be right. I am so grateful for your love that is certain even though you know my heart. I yield to you, Jesus. You are my King. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Ephesians 4:15
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 

Written by Lauri White, a contributor to the Daily Devotional.