Hey everyone, I'm Dr. Allison. Today's scripture offers us a wiser way of being human as we step into the day.

Today we're going to dive into one of the most complicated parts of being human, our relationships. If you've ever had a difficult conversation, if you've ever felt misunderstood, if you've

ever tried to repair something after a conflict, then you already know how much wisdom we need

in this area. What's striking about today's passage is that it doesn't pretend conflict won't

happen. Instead, it shows us what healthy conflict actually looks like. Today's scripture is Ephesians 4 25 through 32.

Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. In your anger, do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give

the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something

useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building

others up according to their needs that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the

Holy Spirit of God with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness,

rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice, be kind and compassionate to one

another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

One of the most important truths about relationships is this. Conflict is inevitable.

Wherever human beings are close to one another, differences will

eventually surface. Different perspectives, different needs, different expectations. And when those differences

collide, tension tends to follow. Many of us grow up learning one of two unhealthy responses

to conflict. Some of us tend to avoid it entirely. We stay

quiet to keep the peace. We swallow our frustrations. We tell ourselves it's not worth bringing up.

But over time, unspoken resentment builds beneath the surface. Other people move in the opposite

direction. When conflict arise, it escalates quickly.

Voices rise, words become sharp, the conversation turns into a battle over who is right.

...