Push Pause

Read

Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Think

Perhaps it's just me, but there I was, lying in bed, engrossed in my phone, scrolling through social media. I'm fully aware that I should exercise better judgment, but this particular evening, something caught my eye—a rather unkind comment on one of my posts. Normally, I'd brush aside such remarks without a second thought, but this time, perhaps due to my tired state, it hit me like a jolt. My blood pressure surged, and I felt an overwhelming urge to retaliate. I was determined to "set things right" before the night was over, my finger poised over the send button, ready to unleash my response. But then, I hesitated.

Maybe you've found yourself in a similar situation—a disagreement with a friend or acquaintance, not even involving someone on social media. The thing is, we don't always need to rush to “fix it.” We don't have to hastily correct misconceptions. Sometimes, firing off a hasty email or launching into a defensive tirade can only fan the flames of conflict that are already smoldering.

Perhaps in such moments, what God is urging us to do is to pray before we respond. Maybe he’s prodding us to listen to his voice for guidance and to allow him to purify our hearts, removing the urge to vindicate ourselves. God is the ultimate peacemaker, capable of helping us approach conflict with a measure of grace that transcends human understanding.

Apply

Where do you need to push pause for a moment? Do you need to ask for guidance in a response? Ask him for wisdom; he is waiting and willing.

Pray

Heavenly Father, help me turn to you first. Search my heart. Lead me to your Truth. Show me how to approach conflict resolution in a prayerful way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.