In Times of Conflict
O God, you have bound us together in a common life. Help us, in the midst of our struggles for justice and truth, to confront one another without hatred or bitterness, and to work together with mutual forbearance and respect; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture to pray with
- Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
- Matthew 18:15-17
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
- James 4:1-2
From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
- Ephesians 4:26
Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
- Matthew 5:9
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
How to pray this prayer
Read it slowly, aloud if you can. Pause at each phrase and make it your own: name the people and situations on your heart. Close by sitting quietly for a minute, trusting that God has heard you (1 John 5:14–15).